Description: http://www.32nd-division.org/history/dsc-ww1/DSC.jpg

Distinguished Service Cross Recipients

from the 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division during World War I

Surnames L through Z

Description: WW2 32nd Division insignia

 

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Read here of the deeds of these brave heroes and do not forget them!

The names which are preceded by an asterisk denote posthumous awards.

 

The Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) is our Nation’s second highest decoration for heroism, second only to the Medal of Honor. The DSC was established by Act of Congress 9 July 1918 (amended by act of 25 July 1963). The DSC is awarded to a person who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguished himself or herself by extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of a Medal of Honor; while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing or foreign force; or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing Armed Force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. The act or acts of heroism must have been so notable and have involved risk of life so extraordinary as to set the individual apart from their comrades. The DSC is equivalent to the Navy Cross and the Air Force Cross.

 

The Distinguished Service Cross citations listed below were collected from a combination of books, historic documents, the Home of Heroes website, and the Hall of Valor website.

 

150.   

Lake, Clarence Walker

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Clarence W. Lake (ASN: 1655959), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 5 October 1918. With two other soldiers, Corporal Lake advanced ahead of their company and rushed an enemy machine-gun nest from the flank, capturing 14 members of the crew and two machine-guns and thereby enabling the advance to continue. Carrying the captured guns with them to the objective, they later used them successfully in repelling a hostile counterattack.”  One of the other Soldiers was Cpl. Arthur L. Stuckrad.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: at Swampscott, Massachusetts

Hometown: Topsfield, Massachusetts

Death: 1942

Interred: Boston Street Cemetery, Topsfield, Massachusetts

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151.   

Lamb, John Remington

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company C, 107TH Field Signal Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 August - 4 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant John R. Lamb (ASN: 252120), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 107th Field Signal Battalion, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 28 August to 4 September 1918. When heavy shelling and machine-gun fire destroyed the telephone communication, Sergeant Lamb, without orders and upon his own initiative, went out and repeatedly patrolled the line, making repairs and reestablishing communication. Thereafter, he continued to patrol the line, constantly improving connections and placing the line in protected places. He worked indefatigably day and night during a period of seven days and refused to rest or seek a place of safety while he could find work to do. When he saw the body of his brother who had been killed in action he did not falter, but remained on duty as before.”  Some references include two additional sentences of his citation: “He was finally forced to go to a hospital by reason of complete exhaustion.  By his bravery and devotion to duty he so distinguished himself as to become the object of admiration by brother officers and soldiers.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 29 June 1896 at Rockford, Michigan

Hometown: Rockford, Michigan

Death: 3 March 1986

 

Member of Sons of the American Revolution (SAR); his brother, Capt. Merritt U. Lamb, HQ Co., 125TH Inf., was KIA 28 Aug. '18 by artillery shell near Juvigny; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 13.069 "D," 23 Jan. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “The telephonic communications having been cut he went out on his own initiative under a violent fire and followed the line making repairs and reestablishing the communication. He worked night and day without stopping for seven days and refused to take rest or shelter while there remained work to do. He was finally forced by exhaustion to go to a hospital. His courage and bravery won the admiration of all.”; brother Clarence Ray also served; married Helen L., father of at least 2; charter member and first Commander of Merritt Lamb Post No. 102 of American Legion at Rockford, MI, named in honor of his brother (brother Clarence R. was also charter member, initial 2nd Vice Commander, later Commander).

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152.   

Langdon, Russell Creamer

Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army

Headquarters, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Russell Creamer Langdon, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving as Commanding Officer, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Fismes, France, 5 August 1918. After a patrol had reported to him that a bridge crossing of the Vesle could not be located due to heavy enemy machine-gun and rifle fire, Colonel Langdon personally led a patrol through an area covered by enemy shall and machine-gun fire, to the Vesle River and selected a suitable spot for the building of a bridge and gave instructions for the selection of material for construction.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 46 (1920)

Born: 20 January 1872 at Brooklyn, New York

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

Death: 3 November 1963 at New York

Interred: United States Military Academy Post Cemetery, West Point, New York

 

Son of Loomis Lyman and Hattie (Creamer) Langdon, father graduated USMA and was an Army Col., ret. 25 Oct. '94; married Adria Maude Semple; married Lois Langdon; graduated USMA at West Point in '96; commissioned 2d Lt. and assigned to 8TH Inf. on 12 Jun. '96; earned Silver Star Citation at Santiago de Cuba during Spanish-American War;  issued Patent No. 611692 for Cartridge-holding Attachment for Belts, 4 Oct. '98; promoted 1st Lt. on 20 Dec. '98; served during Philippine Insurrection; promoted Capt. on 26 Jul. '01; assigned to 3D Inf. 21 Jun. '02; Capt. stationed at Camp Orenton, Mindano, Philippines ca. '10-'11; Capt. and infantry instructor/inspector attached to N. Car. NG ca. '11-'15; promoted Maj. 1 Jul. '16; sailed for France as cdr. of 2D Bn., 16TH Inf., 1ST Div. on 14 Jun. '17; promoted Col. (brevet) 5 Aug. '17; assumed cmd. of 127TH Inf. on 12 Jul. '18, succeeded Col. Wilbur M. Lee; also earned Distinguished Service Medal, OLC to Silver Star Citation, Officier de la Légion d'Honneur (French Legion of Honor) 16 Mar. '19, Croix de Guerre w/gilt star (Fismes 4 Aug. '18) and w/palm (Juvigny and Terny-Sorny, when Regt. earned it), Div. Citation (likely basis for Silver Star Citation); returned to U.S. with 32D Div., then assumed cmd. of 10TH Inf. at Camp Custer, MI; Adjutant Gen. of III Corps Area ca. '24; commandant of Camp Custer, MI ca. '33; cdr. of 2D Inf. and Ft. Wayne, MI ca. '34, relinquished cmd. 31 Aug. '34; Col. and cdr. of Army recruiting district of Western Penn. at Pittsburgh, PA ca. '34-'36; retired 8 Jun. '36 after 40 years of service; his monument lists rank as Brig. Gen.; member of Military Order of Loyal Legion of the U.S.

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153.   

Langham, George W. (Langhan)

Private, U.S. Army

Company H, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 29 August - 2 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private George W. Langham (ASN: 2311110), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 29 August  - 2 September 1918. Though he had been severely gassed, Private Langham remained on duty with his company while it was in the front line. Later, when it was in support, he voluntarily aided in the work of carrying wounded across an area covered by artillery and machine-gun fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 12 June 1894 at Puzzletown, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Roaring Springs, Pennsylvania

Death: 3 May 1978

Interred: Watts Cemetery, Curwensville, Pennsylvania

 

Also earned Croix de Guerre.

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154.   

Larson, Colonel

Corporal, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 - 3 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Colonel Larson (ASN: 282986), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 1 - 3 September 1918. Corporal Larson constantly patrolled the telephone lines in front of Juvigny, repairing the lines under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire. Near Ecurey, when the enemy artillery fire was so intense as to make telephonic communications impossible, Corporal Larson, on duty as a lineman, volunteered as a runner, and served as such under extremely heavy fire until completely exhausted.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 29 October 1892 at Lewis, Wisconsin

Hometown: Neillsville, Wisconsin

Death: 28 June 1982

Interred: Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, Minnesota

 

He enlisted in Co. A, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Neillsville, WI; was Pvt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to HQ Co., 128TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; brother Norman, WNG, served in same unit during Mexican Border Crisis, not sure if he served in same unit in France; resided at St. Paul, MN ca. '38.

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155.   

Leplus, Paul

First Lieutenant, Army of France

89TH Regiment of Infantry, attached to 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Lieutenant Paul Leplus, Army of France, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 89th Regiment of Infantry, 127th U.S. Infantry (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 4 October 1918. Realizing the necessity and importance of the tanks in the attack on the Bois-de-la Morine, Lieutenant Leplus volunteered and led the tanks over unfamiliar and difficult terrain. He continually exposed himself to the terrific fire of the enemy in their attempt to destroy the tanks, but carried his mission to a successful conclusion.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 78 (1919)

Born: at France

Hometown: Paris, France

 

NoK Mrs. Paul Leplus, 10 Avenue de La Republique, Paris, France.

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156.   

*Lewis, Frank A.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 - 11 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Frank A. Lewis (ASN: 263396), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 - 11 October 1918. During the period from 9 - 11 October 1918, Private First Class Lewis repeatedly volunteered and carried messages from his company in the front line to his battalion post of command, crossing and re- crossing a fire-swept valley while engaged in this work. After being dangerously wounded on his last trip, he bent all his energies to attracting the attention of another runner who would deliver his message, but the delay in securing first aid resulted in his death. His work during these days was not only an inspiration to his comrades, but also of inestimable value in the success of the regimental attack.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919), Amended Supplement 1

Born: 18 May 1896 at Cherokee, Alabama

Hometown: Tallassee or Chavies, Alabama

Death: 11 October 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He was assigned to Sup. Co., 167TH Inf., 42D Div. (likely was originally assigned to 4TH Ala. Inf., Alabama National Guard); transferred to Co. I, 125TH Inf.; also memorialized at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Cherokee Co., AL.

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157.   

*Liniger, William H.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant William Liniger (ASN: 2305455), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. After all the officers of his company had been killed or wounded an attack by his platoon was ordered on an enemy machine-gun nest. Receiving a mortal wound in the attack, which, captured the enemy nest, Sergeant Liniger struggled on until the objective had been reached, encouraging his men and setting them an example of his bravery.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: January 1897 at Muscatine, Iowa

Hometown: Muskegon, Michigan

Death: 9 October 1918

Interred: Oakwood Cemetery, Muskegon, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He enlisted in Co. G, 32D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Muskegon, MI ca. 22 Jun. '16; served during Mexican Border Crisis; promoted Cpl. ca. 3 Jul. '17; assigned to Co. I when 126TH Inf. was organized.

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158.   

Lloyd, Wilfred

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Wilfred Lloyd (ASN: 275108), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Fismes, France, 4 August 1918. Wounded while advancing under machine-gun fire, he showed highest devotion to duty by returning to his company as soon as he had obtained first-aid treatment. He crawled to a road, secured a pistol to replace the one he had lost when he was wounded, and joined a group which attacked a machine-gun nest, capturing the position and the machine gun.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 128 (1918)

Born: 1898 at Roscoe, Illinois

Hometown: Beloit, Wisconsin

Death: 1952

Interred: Roscoe Cemetery, Roscoe, Illinois

 

He enlisted Co. L, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Beloit, WI; was Pvt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. L, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre.

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159.   

*Logue, Thomas

Private, U.S. Army

Battery D, 119TH Field Artillery Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 29 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Thomas Logue (ASN: 297562), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery D, 119th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Montfaucon, France, 29 September 1918. Private Logue worked ceaselessly under heavy enemy shell fire, in carrying wounded comrades to the first aid station, until he was himself severely wounded.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: at Ireland

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 10 October 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: DW

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160.   

Luzenski, William

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company H, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant William Luzenski (ASN: 280411), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 4 August 1918. Shortly after the assault was launched Sergeant Luzenski was wounded by shell fire. In spite of his wounds he gallantly led his platoon, gained his objective, and remained in command of his platoon until ordered to the rear by his commanding officer.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: at Detroit, Michigan

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

 

Enlisted in Michigan National Guard; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although wounded during the assault near the Vesle on August 4, 1918, he retained command of his platoon and led it to its objective. He displayed great courage and endurance in remaining at his post until his commander gave orders for his evacuation.”; WIA 1 Oct. '18; awarded his Croix de Guerre in a ceremony while patient at Army Gen. Hosp. No. 36 at Detroit, MI in May '19.

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161.   

Madden, Joseph A.

Private, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July - 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Joseph A. Madden (ASN: 1335), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges and Fismes, France, 31 July to 4 August 1918. Throughout the advance by Company D, to which he was attached, his conduct, in treating the wounded under fire, afforded an inspiring example of devotion to duty. He was in the front lines at all times, administering relief not only to men of his company but also to the wounded of other organizations in his vicinity. He voluntarily searched the woods and fields to give first aid to the wounded. In spite of heavy and continuous shell fire, he continued working untiringly day and night until exhausted.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: 9 March 1897 at Manistee, Michigan

Hometown: Manistee, Michigan

Death: 15 March 1920 at Manistee, Michigan

Interred: Mount Carmel Cemetery, Manistee, Michigan

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 12.373 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, "He displayed extraordinary bravery and zeal in administering first aid to the wounded during the advance from Cierges to Fismes from July 31 to August 4, 1918. Although exposed to an intense fire of machine guns and artillery no consideration of personal danger could keep him from rescuing his comrades."; brother Sgt. Edmund F. also served.

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162.   

Mansfield, Harry Albert

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Div., A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Harry Mansfield (ASN: 280667), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Romagne, France, 14 October 1918. His company having been held up by machine-gun nest, Sergeant Mansfield, with another soldier, crawled 200 yards ahead of his company and reduced the machine-gun nest, killing three of the enemy and capturing 18.” The other Soldier was Cpl. Frank S. Marek, Co. M, 126TH Inf.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 19 December 1894 at Mecosta, Michigan

Hometown: Mecosta, Michigan

Death: 1 December 1963 at Muskegon, Michigan

Interred: Mount Hope Cemetery, Mecosta, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Co. H, 32D Mich. Inf., Mich. NG, at Big Rapids, MI; Pvt. in the unit during during Mexican Border Crisis; on 24 Sep. '16, he and Cpl. Arthur E. Ribble were jailed at Juarez, Mexico, for about 5 hours, they were on pass in civilian clothes and went to a bull fight, after the event they were arrested for taking photographs, which was prohibited, the camera was confiscated and they were released after contacting someone at El Paso, TX to wire money to pay the fine ($5); assigned to Co. I, 126TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; married Georgia M. Simcox.

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163.   

Marek, Frank S.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Frank S. Marek (ASN: 281493), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Romagne, France, 14 October 1918. With another soldier, Corporal Marek crawled 200 yards ahead of his company and reduced a machine-gun nest which had been holding up the advance, killing three of the enemy and capturing 18.” The other Soldier was Sgt. Harry Mansfield, Co. I, 126TH Inf.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 12 January 1899 at Grand Rapids, Michigan

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 20 April 1965

Interred: Resurrection Cemetery, Wyoming, Michigan

 

Enlisted in Michigan National Guard; married, father of 9; son Frank T. was combat engineer in WWII; son Sgt. Thomas D. served during Korean War with Co. E, 9TH Inf., 2D ID, WIA 2 Sep. '50, earned Silver Star, posthumously, for providing covering fire so that the rest of his squad could withdraw near Kujang-Dong, North Korea, on 27 Nov. ’50, he was KIA on 1 Dec. '50, his Silver Star was presented to his father.

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164.   

Mark, Roy Carl

Private, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Roy C. Mark (ASN: 2297894), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 31 July 1918. Though he was twice wounded during the attack on Hill 212, Private Mark displayed remarkable bravery and devotion to duty by continuing in action and advancing with the attack. He continued to fight until he was ordered to the rear on account of his wounds.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 26 August 1891 at McMillan, Michigan

Hometown: McMillan, Michigan

Death: 21 October 1967

Interred: Grants Pass Masonic Pioneer Cemetery, Grants Pass, Oregon

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165.   

*Marlin, Jesse

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company B, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Jesse Marlin (ASN: 83455), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company B, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Juvigny, France, 31 August 1918. Corporal Marlin was one of a party of three officers and two men, who armed with one German machine-gun and three German rifles, attacked a machine-gun nest held by 70 Germans. Under terrific fire from the enemy, who laid down an artillery barrage upon their position, they concentrated their rifles so effectively that 32 Germans surrendered within an hour. After the prisoners had been brought in Corporal Marlin with a private established another machine-gun in an advanced position, and kept up a concentrated fire on the Germans until he was wounded in the body five times by machine-gun bullets.”  Pfc. Helmuth B. DeWitz also earned the Distinguished Service Cross for this event, he is listed above.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 142 (1918)

Born: at Roanoke, Virginia

Hometown: Billings, Montana

Death: 5 October 1918

Interred:

Status: DW

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166.   

*Martin, Daniel J.

Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army

128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Daniel J. Martin, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 1 September 1918. On numerous occasions Captain Martin personally headed every forward movement of his command, displaying superb courage in his absolute disregard for personal safety. In the attack on Juvigny the battalion commanded by this officer was called upon to execute a turning movement and effect junction with the French troops on the flank. Under the personal direction of Captain Martin this turning movement was completed across a hill strongly held by the enemy, its success being due to his initiative. During this engagement Captain Martin was gassed and taken from the field unconscious.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 143 (1918)

Born: circa 1875 at Genesee, Wisconsin

Hometown: Waukesha, Wisconsin

Death: 13 November 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: DW

 

Married Hattie E., father of 6; worked at Waukesha Post Office and resided at 222 Carroll St., Waukesha, WI in '99; later resided at R. F. D. 9, Box A1, Waukesha, WI; 2d Lt. in Co. A, 4TH Wis. Inf., ‘Waukesha Guards’, during Spanish-American War; Capt. and cdr. of Co. L, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Waukesha, WI when mobilized 15 Jul. '17; served with 128TH Inf.; earned Croix de Guerre for his actions ca. 2 Aug. '18, “He took personal command of his unit and displayed magnificent bravery . . . during the engagement which resulted in the occupation of Dravegny . . . The success was due to his initiative and his personal energy.”; seriously WIA 10 Nov. '18, bullet or shrapnel wound to spine; a 1st Sgt. Peterson, from Milwaukee and same bn., helped carry him to the aid station, medics told him Martin would likely survive; DW 13 Nov. '18; unit was not informed of death or burial; his promotion to Maj. had been processed, but had not been presented to him before he died; namesake of Daniel J. Martin Post No. 8 of American Legion at Waukesha, WI; not listed in 32D Div. in WW as a casualty but his DSC is listed.

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167.   

Martinson, Alfred M.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 19 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Alfred Martinson (ASN: 273955), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in the Carspach Woods, near Badricourt, Alsace, France, 19 July 1918. During an enemy raid on the sector held by the 3d platoon of Company E, 127th Infantry, which was preceded by a terrific and accurate barrage of high-explosive shells and machine-gun fire, and although surrounded by a superior enemy force, Private Martinson refused to surrender, but instead jumped from his trench and with his automatic rifle repulsed the enemy.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 68 (1920)

Born: 14 May 1894 at Blair, Wisconsin

Hometown: Eleva, Wisconsin

Death: 22 December 1961 at Trempealeau Co., Wisconsin

Interred: Eleva Cemetery, Eleva, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. E, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Eau Claire, WI; assigned to Co. E, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; WIA, listed on 5 Nov. '18 casualty list; transferred to HQ Co., 110TH Inf., 28TH Div. on 12 Oct. '18; discharged 23 May '19; received his DSC on 11 Dec. '20.

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168.   

Masson, Jacob H.

Private, U.S. Army

Company C, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Jacob H. Masson (ASN: 261778), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Mont St. Martin, south of Fismes, France, 5 August 1918. During the attack on Mont St. Martin Private Masson was severely wounded in the neck and shoulder. He refused first aid and was determined to keep up with the attacking wave, which he did until he became too weak from loss of blood. By this remarkable display of courage he conveyed to his comrades the spirit of fearlessness.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 15 September 1894 at Michigan

Hometown: Newport, Michigan

Death: 22 November 1961

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169.   

Mathey, Maurice L.

Private, U.S. Army

Company F, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Maurice L. Mathey (ASN: 2306637), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, on 1 September 1918. In an attack against a strong enemy position, supported by many machine-guns, Private Mathey, a runner, worked unceasingly in the maintenance of liaison, and carried messages through the most severe machine-gun barrage. On his last trip from the regimental post of command he was severely shell shocked, but continued through the barrage to the battalion headquarters and delivered his message.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 15 (1919)

Born: 21 February 1896 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Hometown: Monroe, Wisconsin

Death: 2 October 1981

Interred: Wood National Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

 

NoK Miss Viola Arnold, 829 4th St., Milwaukee, WI; also had ties to Stoughton, WI; enlisted in Co. H, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Monroe, WI; assigned to Co. H, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; transferred to Co. F, 128TH Inf.; also earned Croix de Guerre for his actions 1 Sep. ‘18; returned home ca. 28 Mar. '19, after lengthy hospital stays; received his DSC and Croix de Guerre during Memorial Day Ceremony at the Milwaukee Auditorium on 30 May '19, pinned by Capt. Allen E. Mitchell, Cdr. of Co. H, 127TH Inf; married Dale A. (Adelade), father of at least 3; son, Maurice E., served in Army; worked as parking attendant; later worked for Square D Co.

Oise-AisneX

170.   

McClemens, Frederick William

Private, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Frederick W. McClemens (ASN: 2311117), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 14 October 1918. When the advance of his regiment was held up by enemy machinegun fire and grenades, Private McClemens volunteered as a member of a combat patrol which cut through the enemy lines, captured ten machine guns, killed and captured 15 Germans and forced a large number to surrender to other troops, clearing that part of the Cote Dame Marie of the enemy, thus enabling the advance of the regiment to continue.”  The patrol was led by Capt. Edward B. Strom and the other members were Cpl. Albert S. Krzykwa, Cpl. Frank H. Raymond, Pvt. Charles L. Beck, Pvt. William A. Edsall, Pvt. Thomas D. Karps, and Pvt. Albert R. F. Neitzel.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: 8 March 1894 at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Carnegie, Pennsylvania

Death: 20 May 1957

Interred: Mount Lebanon Cemetery, Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania

 

He entered service 4 Sep. '17; served with Co. M, 126TH Inf., some references list unit as 125TH Inf.; discharged 30 May '19; married Lillia, father of at least 4; resided at 2613 Banksville Rd., Pittsburgh, PA at 1940 census.

Meuse-ArgonneX

171.   

McCullough, Clare A.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company F, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 7 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Clare A. McCullough (ASN: 246695), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 7 October 1918. One of four survivors of a platoon of 41 who attacked Hill 269, Corporal McCullough, with the three others, continued on their mission and held the hill for some time without hope of reinforcements.” Cpl. McCullough was a member of a 41-man platoon led by 1st Lt. Edmund P. Arpin that charged up Hill 269 that day.  They suffered heavy casualties along the way and they seized the objective, but only 4 of them made it to the top (1st Lt. Edmund P. Arpin, Sgt. Robert L. Freeman, Sgt. James B. Voliva).  The follow-on forces could not be deployed because they were caught in artillery barrage, so the four of them had to give up the hill when the Germans began efforts to take it back.  On the way back down they only found 2 survivors from the 37 Soldiers who fell on the way up (1 of the survivors was Cpl. Regan).

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 47, 1921

Born: at Meadville, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Meadville, Pennsylvania

Meuse-ArgonneX

172.   

McDonald, James

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Sergeant James McDonald (ASN: 263604), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Sergy, France, 31 July 1918. After his platoon commander had fallen wounded at the beginning of the advance, and the platoon was becoming demoralized under intense machine gun and artillery fire, Sergeant McDonald assumed command, steadied his men, and led them in a successful attack in a further advance of 150 yards, gaining an important objective and strengthening the defense of the captured position of Hill 212.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 61 (1919)

Born: at Saginaw, Michigan

Hometown: Saginaw, Michigan

Aisne-MarneX

173.   

*McFarling, George Theodore

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private George McFarling, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Although he was himself severely wounded, Private McFarling crawled over to an exposed and dangerous place to render first aid to a seriously wounded comrade, and while doing so received a fatal wound.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 116 (1918)

Born: at Alpena, Michigan

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

Death: 31 July 1918

Interred: Oise-Aisne American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Also awarded Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although seriously wounded he risked his life to go to the aid of a wounded comrade who was in an exposed and dangerous position. Was killed in the course of the mission for which he had volunteered.”

Aisne-MarneX

174.   

McKey, Harold Gross

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 13 - 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harold G. McKey, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Romagne, France, 13 - 14 October 1918. When his company commander was wounded, Lieutenant McKey took command of the company. Although wounded and weakened by the loss of blood, he refused to be evacuated but continued in command of his men for 32 hours under severe machine-gun and artillery fire, until the town of Romagne was taken, remaining in action until ordered to the rear.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 7 December 1888 at Chicago, Illinois

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Death: 20 May 1967 at Tryon, North Carolina

Interred: Logan Cemetery, Logan, Iowa

Meuse-ArgonneX

175.   

McNulty, Clarence J.

Private, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 128TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 7 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Clarence J. McNulty (ASN: 17469), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 128th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 7 October 1918. When his battalion was forced to retire under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, Private McNulty, accompanied by Private William A. Jacobson, went out in front of the battalion, administering first aid and bringing in the wounded who had been left lying in exposed positions. While they were carrying back a wounded soldier, Private Jacobson was wounded, whereupon Private McNulty alone carried the wounded man to the dressing station and then immediately returned to assist Private Jacobson.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 46 (1919)

Born: at Chicago, Illinois

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Meuse-ArgonneX

176.   

McSorley, James

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company E, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant James McSorley (ASN: 273900), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Roncheres, France, 30 July 1918. Painfully wounded in the left arm, Sergeant McSorley continued to lead his platoon in the face of terrific machine-gun fire, remaining with his men and directing the advance until he was ordered to the rear.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 22 August 1895 at Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Hometown: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Death: 30 August 1978 at Pinellas County, Florida

Interred: Saint Patrick's Cemetery, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. E, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Eau Claire, WI; was Pvt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to 3D Plt., Co. E, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; cited for gallantry for his actions 19 Jul. '18 at Alsace; returned home ca. 15 Aug. '20, after being discharged from base hosp. at Ft. Sheridan, IL; he was the last member of the original Co. E to return home; left arm disabled due to his injuries; married Agnes P.

Aisne-MarneX

177.   

Mecom, John H.

Private, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private John H. Mecom (ASN: 251505), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 31 July 1918. Though severely wounded while advancing with his platoon in the face of heavy fire from enemy machine guns, Private Mecom refused to return to the rear for first aid and he not only continued in the advance but with another soldier successfully attacked a machine-gun nest.”  The other man may have been Cpl. Gustave A. Michalka, given the similarity of their citations.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: at Williams, Oklahoma

Hometown: Eufaula, Oklahoma

 

He sailed aboard the Tuscania and survived the sinking.

Aisne-MarneX

178.   

Melfi, Jerry

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company F, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Jerry Melfi (ASN: 3180986), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 14 October 1918. After two runners had been wounded attempting to get liaison with the troops on the left of his regiment, Private Melfi, though sick from exposure, volunteered and successfully crossed an open field which was constantly swept by enemy machine-gun fire. Having accomplished his mission, he returned through the same machine-gun fire and delivered to his company commander the information he had gained. Private Melfi's devotion to duty and fearlessness were an inspiration to his comrades.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 49 (1922)

Born: at Italy

Hometown: Swissvale, Pennsylvania

 

He earned DSC for his actions 14 Oct. '18 as a message runner near Bois-de-Bantheville; also earned Silver Star Citation for his actions 14-16 Oct. '18 as message runner and scout at Bois-de-Bantheville; when the government tried to present him with the DSC ca. '22, they could not find him; when discharged he gave his address as R. R. 1, Wilkensburg (Wilkinsburg), PA, when representatives of the government went there they could find no one who knew of him or his whereabouts; an ad was placed in American Legion Weekly on 30 Mar. '23 seeking information about him in order to present his decoration.

Meuse-ArgonneX

179.   

Michalka, Gustave A.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Gustave A. Michalka (ASN: 262200), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. When his platoon advanced up the slope in front of the Bois les Jomblets, it became necessary to put out of action an enemy machine gun that was cutting up the platoon. Corporal Michalka grasped the situation and at the risk of his own life advanced upon the nest with two of his men, killed the operators, and captured the gun.”  One of the other two men may have been Pvt. John H. Mecom, given the similarity of their citations.  Some references suggest the other man was Sgt. Ivan H. Smith, but he acted alone according to his DSC.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: at Cheboygan, Michigan

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

Death: 1 June 1946

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “With two of his men he captured a machine gun by assault and killed the crew. By his bravery and prompt action he avoided losses in his platoon.”; married Edna Caroline Loll or Lall, father of at least 2 (2 of his great-granddaughters are celebrities, if the info. at http://ethnicelebs.com/ is accurate); worked as tailor for L. H. Cole and resided at 102 12th Ave., Flint, MI ca. '22; resided at 1902 Chippina St., Flint, MI at 1940 census.

Aisne-MarneX

180.   

*Morrison, John Alexander Johnston

Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army

322D Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 - 15 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) John Morrison, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 322d Field Artillery, 83d Division, A.E.F., near Molleville Farm, France, 14 - 15 October 1918. As liaison officer between the infantry and artillery Second Lieutenant Morrison exemplified in the highest degree the spirit of bravery, devotion to duty and self-sacrifice. He crawled beyond the front line in the face of intense machine-gun and artillery fire, with a telephone strapped on his back, in order to direct the preparatory fire of the artillery, On the following day he accompanied the advance infantry battalion in the attack, and under the most difficult circumstances established and maintained liaison with the artillery. In the faithful performance of these duties this gallant officer lost his life.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 130 (1918)

Born: 24 April 1896 at Cincinnati, Ohio

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Death: 15 October 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery, also memorialized at Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati, Ohio

Status: KIA

 

May have transferred to HQ Co., 158TH FA Bde., attached to 32D Div.; also earned Croix de Guerre.

Meuse-ArgonneX

181.   

Morrison, Lyman N.

Private, U.S. Army

Company A, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Lyman N. Morrison (ASN: 263470), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 3 August 1918. Private Morrison displayed marked bravery in repeatedly carrying messages to the front lines over terrain swept by intense artillery and machine-gun fire. Still under heavy fire, he assisted wounded soldiers he found in exposed positions. His heroism was an inspiration to those near him.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: 23 April 1894 at Comstock, Michigan

Hometown: Kalamazoo, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard on 18 Jul. '16; served during Mexican Border Crisis; mustered out 18 Jan. '17; re-enlisted on 2 Nov. '17 at Columbus Barracks; assigned to Co. A, 125TH Inf.; Alsace, Aisne-Marne, Oise-Aisne, Meuse-Argonne; WIA and gassed at Mont St. Martin night of 3 Aug. '18; discharged 21 May '19 at Camp Custer, MI.

Aisne-MarneX

182.   

Motley, Robert Emmett

First Lieutenant (Dental Corps), U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July to 7 August & 14 - 16 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Dental Corps) Robert E. Motley, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July to 7 August and near Verdun, France, 14 - 16 October 1918. Realizing the need of medical attention at the front, Lieutenant Motley went beyond the scope of his duties as dentist by advancing with the infantry and establishing and maintaining dressing station with the leading elements of his command. For seven days, from 31 July to 7 August he safely evacuated many patients by his prompt and fearless action. He again volunteered and went forward in the attack of 14 - 16 October, and on the latter date, carried a message back to the supply officer, requesting food for the men. Although wounded and badly gassed, he accomplished his mission, refusing evacuation until the food was started for the lines.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 59 (1919)

Born: 17 October 1887 at Pittsfield, Illinois

Hometown: Verden, Illinois

Death: 21 October 1962

Interred: Arlington National Cemetery

 

NoK Dr. Ernest G. Motley, brother, Verden, IL; also had ties to New Salem, IL, Ann Arbor, MI, and Detroit, MI; attended Ann Arbor (MI) H. S. ca. '06; attended Oberlin College ca. '09; graduated U. Mich. School of Dentistry in '16; enlisted in Co. I, 31ST Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, on 9 Mar. '15; commissioned 1st Lt., dental corps, 20 Aug. '16; likely served during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Med. Det., 125TH Inf.; overseas 18 Feb. '18; also earned Croix de Guerre; promoted Capt. 16 Feb. '19; discharged at Camp Dix, NJ on 31 Oct. '19; brother, Pvt. Joseph A., served with Med. Det., 77TH Inf. and died 9 Oct. '18 at Camp Custer, MI; served in Regular Army after the war; stationed at Ft. McPherson, GA ca. Apr. '22; opened a dental practice at Washington, D.C. ca. '23; member of the Washington Art Club, painted landscapes; likely namesake of Robert E. Motley Scholarship at U. of Mich.

Aisne-MarneX, Meuse-ArgonneX

183.   

Moyse, Hermann

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Herman Moyse, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. After advancing through five stages of artillery barrage and machine-gun fire, First Lieutenant Moyse led a patrol of five men forward to capture two machine guns which were endangering the success of the operation. Although seriously wounded in the chest and foot by machine-gun fire, he would not consent to being taken to the rear until the guns had been captured.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 11 September 1891 at St. Gabriel, Louisiana

Hometown: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Death: 21 November 1985

Interred: Jewish Cemetery, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

 

Jewish; graduated La. State U. in '10, member of corps of cadets, earned Alumni Award in '08 and '09, “given to the cadet ... whose general standing in study and deportment is highest.”; earned law degree in '12; junior partner with firm of Cross and Moyse at Baton Rouge, LA; entered service 6 May '17; completed First Officers' Training Camp at Ft. Logan H. Roots, AR on 15 Aug. '17 and commissioned 2d Lt.; assigned to 32D Div. at Camp MacArthur, TX on 31 Aug. '17; promoted 1st Lt. on 4 Sep. '17; overseas as member of Div. advance party in Jan. '18; served with 125TH Inf.; seriously WIA in chest and foot by machinegun fire 31 Jul. ‘18, refused evacuation until mission was completed; also earned Purple Heart (received it ca. 11 Nov. '32) and Croix de Guerre w/palm; released from hosp. on 8 Nov. '18; assigned as assistant to adjutant general of  Service of Supply at Tours until 20 Apr. '19; returned to U.S. with 125TH Inf.; discharged at Camp Shelby, MS on 21 May '19; Capt. in Officers' Reserve Corps; married Rosalie Gottlieb 30 Sep. '20, father of Hermann, Jr. and Betty; also served during WWII (so did his son); attained rank of Lt. Col.; elected to state legislature ca. '21-'24; worked as attorney for City National Bank at Baton Rouge; member of St. James Lodge No. 47, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; past exalted ruler of Eaton Rouge Lodge No. 490, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks; served as state cdr. of La. Dept. of American Legion.

Aisne-MarneX

184.   

Mueller, Joseph, Jr.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 10 - 11 November 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Joseph Mueller, Jr. (ASN: 274236), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Jametz, France, 10 - 11 November 1918. Private Mueller, a runner, successfully maintained liaison between his company, which formed the liaison group with another division, and regimental headquarters, promptly carrying numerous messages across an area under heavy fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 23 November 1896 at Hungary (Austria-Hungary)

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

 

He worked at Arthur Julien Shade Corp. (Julien Shade Shop); enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard at Milwaukee, WI on 23 Jul. '17, likely Co. F, 1ST Wis. Inf.; assigned to Co. F, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; Alsace, Aisne-Marne, Oise-Aisne, Meuse-Argonne; discharged at Camp Grant, IL on 23 May '19.

Meuse-ArgonneX

185.   

Munroe, William A.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 July - 2 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant William A. Munroe (ASN: 1303), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Sergy, France, 28 July to 2 August 1918. Sergeant Munroe voluntarily left his aid station and went to the field of action to deliver first aid to men in the most advanced positions. He tended the wounded under the most intense machine-gun and shell fire, and successfully carried a large number to places of comparative safety. His courage and cheerfulness under such hazardous circumstances did much to keep up the spirits of both the wounded whom he served and the men fighting in that vicinity.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: 24 August 1893 at Saginaw, Michigan

Hometown: Detroit or Saginaw, Michigan

Death: 8 June 1965

Interred: Forest Lawn Cemetery, Saginaw, Michigan

 

Married Effie J. Slavens, father of at least 2; worked in law enforcement, Sheriff of Saginaw Co. '46-'53; appointed Postmaster of Saginaw, MI in '53; retired in 64.

Aisne-MarneX

186.   

Neitzel, Albert Robert Fredrick

Private, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Albert R. Neitzel (ASN: 278702), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 14 October 1918. In an attack on Cote Dame Marie the 126th Infantry was held up, owing to intense enemy machine-gun fire. Private Neitzel volunteered as a member of a combat patrol, which cut through the enemy lines, captured ten machine guns, killed and captured fifteen of the enemy, and forced a large number to surrender, clearing that part of the Cote Dame Marie of the enemy, thus enabling the regiment to continue their advance.”  The patrol was led by Capt. Edward B. Strom and the other members were Cpl. Albert S. Krzykwa, Cpl. Frank H. Raymond, Pfc. Frederick W. McClemens, Pvt. Charles L. Beck, Pvt. William A. Edsall, and Pvt. Thomas D. Karps.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: 19 April 1895 at St. Francis, Kansas

Hometown: Wheeler, Kansas

Death: 19 August 1952

Interred: St. Francis Cemetery, St. Francis, Kansas

 

Assigned to Co. E, 353D Inf., ‘The All Kansas Regiment’, 89TH Div.; transferred before 89TH Div. sailed for France; transferred to Co. M, 126TH Inf.; Alsace, Aisne-Marne, Oise-Aisne, Meuse-Argonne, Army of Occupation; WIA, gassed, 4 Oct. '18; married Hilda Katherine Marie Monhardt, father of at least 4.

Meuse-ArgonneX

187.   

Nicol, Alexander Lee ‘Alex’

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company L, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Alexander L. Nicol, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 30 August 1918. After being severely wounded Lieutenant Nicol directed the orderly retirement of his company and organized it under heavy fire of artillery and machine guns. At great personal risk he made several trips forward to bring in wounded men. Throughout the entire action he fearlessly exposed himself to fire in order to encourage and cheer his men. His energetic and faithful work furnished an example of calmness and courage to the men under his command.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 116 (1919)

Born: 13 March 1895 at Sparta, Wisconsin

Hometown: Sparta, Wisconsin

Death: 22 July 1967 at Sparta, Wisconsin at age 72

Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Sparta, Wisconsin

 

He graduated Sparta H. S. in '16; enlisted in Co. L, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Sparta, WI in '16; was Sgt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; 2d Lt. in same unit when mobilized 15 Jul. '17; assigned to Co. L, 128TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre; spent 2 years in military hospitals, discharged Oct. '20; married Ethel C., father of 3; Monroe Co. Clerk '20-'39; served 10 years on Sparta School Board; elected to State Assembly in '38, re-elected at least 5 times, elected speaker of same in '49; resided at 319 E. Main St., Sparta, WI, at 1940 census; member of American Legion, VFW, Kiwanis, Masons, Scottish Rite of Eau Claire, Zor Temple Shrine of Madison; both sons served during WWII, both attained rank of Lt. Col., at least 1 of them served in Korea and Vietnam.

Oise-AisneX

188.   

*Noble, Clarence G.

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company G, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 or 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Clarence G. Noble, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near St. Gilles, France, 3 August 1918. Lieutenant Noble voluntarily exposed himself to heavy shell fire in placing his men under cover during a heavy bombardment. While assisting a wounded soldier he was struck by a shell and killed.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

Born: 29 August 1895 at Reedsville, Wisconsin

Hometown: Soperton, Wisconsin

Death: 3 or 4 August 1918

Interred: Aisne-Marne American Cemetery

Status: DW or KIA

 

He was 2d Lt. in Co. H, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Crandon, WI when it mobilized 15 Jul. '17; namesake of Clarence Noble Post No. 2037 of VFW at Green Bay, WI.

Aisne-MarneX

189.   

Norton, James A.

Wagoner, U.S. Army

Company A, Motor Battalion, 107TH Ammunition Train, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Wagoner James A. Norton (ASN: 112415), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 107th Ammunition Train, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 4 September 1918.  During a heavy enemy bombardment a shell burst near two ammunition trucks that were being unloaded at a dump, blowing up one truck and setting fire to the other.  Disregarding the warning of bystanders, Wagoner Norton rushed forward, threw off the burning cushions and cover on the truck and backed it to a place of safety.  His conspicuous bravery was the means of saving a large quantity of ammunition.”  Wag. Norton, Pfc. Walter J. Raleigh, and Pfc. John F. Shedleski worked together to save the truck while delivering powder and fuses to 2D Bn., 121ST FA Regt.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 15 (1919)

Born: at Houghton, South Dakota

Hometown: Columbia, South Dakota

 

Father James Norton, Columbia, SD; also earned Distinguished Service Cross and Croix de Guerre for his actions 2 or 4 Sep. ‘18 at Juvigny; received DSC ca. 20 Mar. ‘19 in Germany (possibly by Gen. Pershing).

Oise-AisneX

190.   

*Nowak, John M.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant John M. Nowak (ASN: 274797), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Fismes, France, 4 August 1918. After being severely wounded Sergeant Nowak refused to go to the rear for first aid, but bravely continued in the advance. While he was helping to reform his company under a heavy machine-gun barrage shortly afterwards he was killed.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 95 (1919)

Born: 18 November 1892 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 4 August 1918 near Fismes

Interred: Oise-Aisne American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

Married; enlisted in Co. K, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Milwaukee, WI on 23 Jun. '16; SN 274797; Cpl. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. K when 127TH Inf. was organized; Gardelle sector, Alsace, Stockette.

Aisne-MarneX

191.   

*Ollrich, Harry John

Private, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July to 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Harry J. Ollrich (ASN: 262315), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., during the advance across the River Ourcq and from Cierges to Fismes, France, 31 July to 4 August 1918. Many times daily during this advance Private Ollrich displayed an entire disregard of personal danger in the carrying of messages through enemy barrages. Later in the fighting near Fismes, when it became necessary to send an important message to the commanding officer of the battalion, although Private Ollrich had been on constant duty night and day for four days, he attempted to deliver the message but was killed while crossing a shell-swept zone.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 116 (1918)

Born: 2 September 1892 at Detroit, Michigan

Hometown: Mount Clemens, Michigan

Death: 4 August 1918

Interred: Clinton Grove Cemetery, Clinton Township, Macomb Co., Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He entered service at Camp Custer, MI on 6 Sep. '17; awarded Croix de Guerre with gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “He distinguished himself during the combat to the south of the Vesle from July 31 to August 4, 1918, in carrying messages through a barrage, displaying absolute contempt for danger. During a combat near Fismes he attempted to carry a message over a bombarded terrain and was killed in the course of the action.”; namesake of Harry Ollrich Post No. 4 of American Legion at Mt. Clemens, MI.

Aisne-MarneX

192.   

Olsen, Olaf S.

Private, U.S. Army

Company I, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Olaf S. Olsen (ASN: 274572), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 31 August 1918. Private Olsen was a squad leader in the second platoon. After reaching his objective he displayed extraordinary qualities of leadership in organizing scattering squads of Company I and placing them in advantageous positions in spite of severe machine-gun fire and artillery bombardment. His disregard of danger and fine leadership were an inspiration to his comrades.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 1244 (1918)

Born: at Swift County, Minnesota

Hometown: Superior, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. I, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Superior, WI; served during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to 2d Plt., Co. I, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; promoted to Sgt. at some point; also earned Croix de Guerre.

Oise-AisneX

193.   

*Ortiz, Concepcion

Private, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 11 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Concepcion Ortiz (ASN: 2229829), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 11 October 1918. On the morning of October 11 Private Ortiz made numerous trips across a valley which was swept by continuous and terrific machine-gun fire, carrying messages of great importance from his company in the front line to his battalion post of command. After having successfully and fearlessly carried many messages he lost his life while performing the hazardous duty.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: at Eagle Pass, Texas

Hometown: Eagle Pass, Texas

Death: 11 October 1918

Interred:

Status: KIA

Meuse-ArgonneX

194.   

Paauwe, Martin J.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company K, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Martin J. Paauwe (ASN: 280926), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near St. Georges, France, 14 October 1918. After the advance of his platoon had been stopped by severe fire from an enemy machine-gun nest, Corporal Paauwe, assisted by another soldier, reorganized the platoon and placed it under cover. Corporal Paauwe and his companion then charged the enemy machine-gun nest and captured it, together with one officer and twenty men.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 16 (1929)

Born: at Lodin, New York

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Meuse-ArgonneX

195.   

Palmer, Donald D.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company C, 107TH Field Signal Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918 (Many references, including transcripts of his citation, list date of action as 2 Aug., but the attack he supported occurred on 1 Aug.)

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Donald D. Palmer (ASN: 252135), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 107th Field Signal Battalion, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, [1] August 1918. Corporal Palmer was a member of a detachment stringing telephone wire far in advance of the front lines through the heaviest artillery fire. When connection was established at a point within 100 yards of the German line and before the American advance was begun, he volunteered to remain there until our troops had advanced far enough to establish the advance regimental post of command at that place. His devotion to duty under conditions of greatest danger assisted immeasurably in maintaining unity of action between the front lines and regimental post of command, and his utter indifference to his own safety made easier the capture of a strong enemy position.”  The 127TH Inf. was set to attack, in support of the Division’s objective to capture Hill 230, at dawn on 1 Aug. ‘18, the commander asked the Signal Corps unit if would be possible to lay telephone wire and hook up a telephone at the site of a future Bn. CP near the objective, before the infantry attack started.  It was not standard practice, but the commander hoped to ensure instant and reliable communication when the attackers neared the crest of the hill.  The Signal Corps men said it was worth a try.  At 0345 hours on 1 Aug., Sfc. George E. Burr, Cpl. Palmer, Pvt. Edwin Pelkey, and 5 other communications men departed friendly lines to lay the telephone wire, under fire, up the slope of the hill to a spot about 100 yards in front of the German lines.  The intent was to leave 1 man at the new position with the telephone while the rest retired to better cover; Sfc. Burr volunteered to stay (he didn't want to ask any of his men to stay in the dangerous position).  Cpl. Palmer and Pvt. Pelkey refused to leave him there alone; the 3 of them held the position and maintained communications until the infantry arrived.  All 3 were awarded the DSC on Christmas Eve on the east bank of the Rhine as the Div. marched into Germany with the Army of Occupation.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 27 January 1899 at Green Bay or Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

Hometown: West Allis, Wisconsin

Death: 1960

Interred: Bayside Cemetery, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

 

He worked as lineman for Wis. Telephone Co.; enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard at Milwaukee, WI on 15 Apr. '17, likely 1ST Wis. Sig. Corps Bn.; assigned to Co. C, 107TH Fld. Sig. Bn. when 32D Div. was organized; Alsace, Château-Thierry, Soissons, Meuse-Argonne; attained rank of Sfc.; stationed at Rengsdorf, Germany with Army of Occupation; discharged 19 May '19; he must have lost his DSC citation shortly after he received it, because an ad in American Legion Weekly on 19 Sep. '19 by Post No. 22 of American Legion at Saginaw, MI, stated that 1 of their members found it in Germany and they wanted to get it back to him.

Aisne-MarneX

196.   

*Payson, Carl Frederick

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company C, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Carl F. Payson (ASN: 261851), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, on 1 August 1918. During the attack made by the company on the village of Cierges, Sergeant Payson was mortally wounded in the head by a machine-gun bullet. He succeeded in keeping on his feet, however, and with the attacking wave, encouraged them, and by his strong will power he instilled in them all the spirit of fearlessness.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 116 (1918)

Born: 14 June 1896 at Paulding, Ohio

Hometown: Monroe, Michigan

Death: 1 August 1918

Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery

Status: MIA

 

He worked as welder at Van Blerck Motor co.; enlisted in Michigan National Guard at Monroe, MI, the Monroe Light Guard, ca. '14; also awarded Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During the attack of Cierges on August 1, 1918, although mortally wounded in the head he nevertheless succeeded in keeping his feet and in accompanying the assaulting wave until he fell. His example of indomitable will and bravery encouraged all his comrades.”; MIA, presumed KIA, 1 Aug. (31 Jul.) '18 at Cierges, machinegun bullet wound to his head; namesake of Carl F. Payson Post No. 60 of American Legion at Monroe, MI; he was one of Pershing's 100, 1 of 2 from 32D Div.

Aisne-MarneX

197.   

Pelkey, Edwin (Edward)

Private, U.S. Army

Company C, 107TH Field Signal Battalion, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918 (Many references, including transcripts of his citation, list date of action as 2 Aug., but the attack he supported occurred on 1 Aug.)

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Edwin Pelkey (ASN: 2278753), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 107th Field Signal Battalion, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, [1] August 1918. Private Pelkey was a member of a detachment stringing telephone wire in advance of the front lines through the heaviest artillery fire. When connection was established at a point within 100 yards of the German line and before the American advance was begun, Private Pelkey volunteered to remain there until our troops had advanced far enough to establish the advance regimental post of command at that place. His devotion to duty under conditions of great danger assisted immeasurably in maintaining unity of action between the front lines and regimental post of command, and his utter indifference to his own safety made easier the capture of a strong enemy position.”   The 127TH Inf. was set to attack, in support of the Division’s objective to capture Hill 230, at dawn on 1 Aug. ‘18, the commander asked the Signal Corps unit if would be possible to lay telephone wire and hook up a telephone at the site of a future Bn. CP near the objective, before the infantry attack started.  It was not standard practice, but the commander hoped to ensure instant and reliable communication when the attackers neared the crest of the hill.  The Signal Corps men said it was worth a try.  At 0345 hours on 1 Aug., Sfc. George E. Burr, Cpl. Donald D. Palmer, Pvt. Edwin Pelkey, and 5 other communications men departed friendly lines to lay the telephone wire, under fire, up the slope of the hill to a spot about 100 yards in front of the German lines.  The intent was to leave 1 man at the new position with the telephone while the rest retired to better cover; Sfc. Burr volunteered to stay (he didn't want to ask any of his men to stay in the dangerous position).  Cpl. Palmer and Pvt. Pelkey refused to leave him there alone; the 3 of them held the position and maintained communications until the infantry arrived.  All 3 were awarded the DSC on Christmas Eve on the east bank of the Rhine as the Div. marched into Germany with the Army of Occupation.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: at Canada

Hometown: Reno, Nevada

 

NoK Fred E. Pelkey, R. F. D. 1, Pain Court, Ontario, CAN; WIA, listed on 16 Nov. '18 and 4 Mar. '19 casualty lists.

Aisne-MarneX

198.   

Peterson, Walter Oscar Ludwig

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company H, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Sergeant Walter O. L. Peterson (ASN: 284497), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 5 October 1918. Because of casualties among officers, Sergeant Peterson was placed in command of the second wave, which he led with exceptional bravery and leadership. When it became isolated in a fog, he crawled forward by himself to ascertain the character of troops which were seen one kilometer to the front, and upon finding that they were hostile, immediately established liaison with adjacent units and straightened out his line after breaking up several enemy machine-gun nests.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 44 (1919)

Born: 4 December 1892 at Menominee, Michigan

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 13 October 1976 at Detroit, Michigan

Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Detroit, Michigan

 

NoK Mrs. Edna H. Peterson, wife, 2122 Clarence Ave., Racine, WI, previously 1420 or 1530 Grand Ave., Milwaukee, WI; worked in office of Pine Lumber Co.; enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard at Milwaukee, WI on 19 Jul. '17; served with Co. H, 128TH Inf.; overseas 19 Feb. '18; also earned Croix de Guerre w/star (not sure if gilt, silver, or bronze); commissioned 2d Lt.; departed France 27 Apr. '19; arrived Camp Mills 7 May '19; discharged at Camp Grant, IL on 19 May '19; married Edna Hannah Marie Risberg, father of at least 2.

Meuse-ArgonneX

199.   

*Phillips, Dewey

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company K, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Dewey Phillips (ASN: 263473), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Sergy, France, 31 July 1918. While his company was waiting orders, after having reached the crest of Hill 212, Private Phillips voluntarily left his place and went for a message when an approaching runner was seen to fall, too badly wounded to reach the company. This act was done voluntarily and under the direct fire of the enemy's machine-guns, as well as the terrific bombardment to which the hill was then subjected.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: 22 April 1898 at Saginaw, Michigan

Hometown: Saginaw, Michigan

Death: 1 August 1918 near Sergy

Interred: Forest Lawn Cemetery, Saginaw, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Namesake of Phillips-Elliot-Hodges Post No. 22 of American Legion at Saginaw, MI.

Aisne-MarneX

200.   

Pierson, Elvin Lyle

Corporal, U.S. Army
Headquarters Company, 322D Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.
Date of Action: 16 October 1918
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Elvin L. Pierson (ASN: 1951636), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 322d Field Artillery, 83d Division, A.E.F., near Bois-de-la Grande-Montague, France, 16 October 1918. When the telephone communications had been cut off, Corporal Pierson made four trips as a runner through severe artillery barrage and machine-gun fire, maintaining liaison between artillery and infantry.”
General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)
Born: 
27 Jul. '92 at Ulysses, New York
Hometown: 
Toledo, Ohio

Death: 18 December 1960

 

NoK Mrs. Kathryn M. Pierson, wife, 2229 Franklin Ave., Toledo, OH, father of 4; also had ties to Dayton OH; graduated Cornell U. on 27 Jun. '17, mech. engr.; resided at 1159 Prospect Ave., Toledo, OH at 1940 census.

Meuse-ArgonneX

201.   

*Plassmeyer, Albert J., Jr.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Battery E, 322D Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 22 and 23 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Albert J. Plassmeyer, Jr. (ASN: 1952505), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery E, 322d Field Artillery, 83d Division, A.E.F., near Brabant-sur-Meuse, France, 22 - 23 October 1918. Though mortally wounded and gassed, Private First Class Plassmeyer continued his work as telephone operator and lineman, repairing telephone lines and remaining on duty until ordered to be evacuated. His example of heroism and fortitude inspired those working with him.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: 3 May 1895 at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Death: 25 October 1918

Interred: St. Peter's Reformed Church Cemetery, Zelienople, Pennsylvania

Status: DW

 

He was WIA, gassed, 23 Oct. '18 near Brabant-sur-Meuse on the outskirts of the Belleau Wood (Bois de Belleau); he and 1st Lt. William R. Goodall were manning a telephone station in a dugout directly behind the battery's guns, a gas shell scored a direct hit, the Lt. eventually recovered but Plassmeyer DW 25 Oct. (28 Oct., 1 Aug.) '18.

Meuse-ArgonneX

202.   

Platten, Michael A.

Cook, U.S. Army

Battery B, 121ST Field Artillery Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Cook Michael A. Platten (ASN: 2304032), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery B, 121st Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Chery-Chartreuve, France, 14 August 1918. When the gun crews of the platoons in the woods were forced to withdraw on account of the intense enemy shelling, a wounded man was left behind. Noticing this, Cook Flatten rushed into the woods despite the continued shelling and brought the man to safety.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: 1 September 1896 at Green Bay, Wisconsin

Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Death: 19 August 1976 at Green Bay, Wisconsin

Interred: Fort Howard Memorial Park, Green Bay, Wisconsin

 

Married, father of (at least) 5; also earned Silver Star Citation.

Aisne-MarneX

203.   

Plauman, Herman

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company H, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Herman Plauman (ASN: 261709), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near St. Gilles, France, 3 August 1918. After having just returned from a hazardous trip through heavy shell fire, Private Plauman volunteered and carried a message to his company commander. As he was about to complete his mission the company commander was mortally wounded by a shell. After administering first aid he reported back to his battalion commander, who, upon noticing that one of the runner's fingers was missing, ordered him to the rear for treatment.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 44 (1919)

Born: at Romeo, Michigan

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star for his actions as a message runner and for providing aid to his wounded commander; WIA.

Aisne-MarneX

204.   

Pohl, George Henry

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal George H. Pohl (ASN: 302697), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company G, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 28 August 1918. Corporal Pohl was severely wounded during the first stage of the advance, but he remained with his company until the objective was gained. He then went to the rear, where his wound was dressed, and was ordered to a hospital. When his evacuation was delayed by lack of ambulances, this soldier decided to return to the front line, where he reported to his commanding officer and volunteered to assist in carrying wounded to a dressing station. During the remainder of the operation, in spite of his wounds, he continued to assist in bringing the wounded in from a field constantly swept by machine-gun fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 1 (1926)

Born: 10 October 1889 at Mount Clemens or Detroit, Michigan

Hometown: Mount Clemens, Michigan

Death: 4 February 1926 at Mount Clemens, Michigan

Interred: Clinton Grove Cemetery, Clinton Township, Macomb County, Michigan

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 13.069 "D," 23 Jan. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “He was severely wounded at the commencement of the advance and remained with his company until the objective was attained. The lack of an ambulance having caused a delay in his evacuation he returned to the front line and reported to his leader and requested to assist in the transport of the wounded to the rear. His heroic conduct was a stimulant for all those who saw him.”; also earned Italian Croce di Guerra; WIA 9 Oct. '18.

Oise-AisneX

205.   

Prescott, Floyd W.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 120TH Field Artillery Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Floyd W. Prescott (ASN: 2302171), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 120th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., at St. Gilles, near Fismes, France, 4 August 1918. Corporal Prescott, with other soldiers, made frequent trips to maintain telephone communication between battalion and regimental headquarters during a destructive enemy bombardment. All other lines had been destroyed and as this line was used by both infantry and artillery for communication with the rear it was of the utmost importance that it be maintained.”  His brother, Pvt. Lee O. Prescott, and Cpl. Frank I. Fox served in the same unit and earned the DSC for their actions that day as well.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 142 (1918)

Born: 23 August 1899 at Leslie, Michigan

Hometown: Lansing, Michigan

Death: 31 May 1970

Interred: Oak Hill Burial Park, Lakeland, Florida

 

He worked as a machinist; enlisted in Btry. B, 1ST Mich. FA Regt., Michigan National Guard; SN 2302159; may have been assigned to 119TH FA Regt. when 32D Div. was organized; served with HQ Co., 120TH FA Regt.; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D" 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An admirably courageous soldier. He kept up the telephonic liaison between the battalion and regimental headquarters under a violent bombardment of artillery.”; WIA, gassed, 14 Aug. '18 near Courville; married Marie 'Mary' Ethyl, father of at least 1; resided at 1823 Aletakee, Lansing, MI at 1940 census.

Aisne-MarneX

206.   

Prescott, Lee Otis

Private, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 120TH Field Artillery Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Lee O. Prescott, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 120th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., at St. Gilles, near Fismes, France, 4 August 1918. Private Prescott with other soldiers made frequent trips to maintain telephone communication between battalion and regimental headquarters during a destructive enemy bombardment. All other lines had been destroyed. As this line was used by both infantry and artillery for a communication with the rear, it was of the utmost importance that it be maintained.”  His brother, Cpl. Floyd W. Prescott, and Cpl. Frank I. Fox served in the same unit and earned the DSC for their actions that day as well.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 32 (1919)

Born: 11 December 1896 at Spicerville, Michigan

Hometown: Lansing, Michigan

Death: 1 February 1966

Interred: Mount Hope Cemetery, Lansing, Michigan

 

He likely enlisted with his brother in Btry. B, 1ST Mich. FA Regt., Michigan National Guard; SN 2302171; served with HQ Co., 120TH FA Regt.; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D" 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An admirably courageous soldier. He kept up the telephonic liaison between the battalion and regimental headquarters under a violent bombardment of artillery.”; married Rosemary 'Mary' Courtright on Christmas Day '20.

Aisne-MarneX

207.   

Purdom, Thomas Monroe

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 - 11 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Thomas M. Purdom (ASN: 2297238), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 - 11 October 1918. Voluntarily assuming the duties of runner, after he had seen many others fail in attempting to get through the unusually heavy fire, Corporal Purdom repeatedly passed through the fire and aided materially in the success of the entire operations. When the supply of first-aid material had become exhausted, he again went through, returning with sufficient bandages to care for the wounded, who could not, at that time, be removed.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 64 (1918)

Born: 19 February 1897 at Sparks or Berrien County, Georgia

Hometown: Sparks, Georgia

Death: 18 June 1979

Interred: Hillcrest Cemetery, Sylvester, Georgia

Meuse-ArgonneX

208.   

*Purdy, Willard Dealton

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company A, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Willard D. Purdy (ASN: 273297), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Hegenbach [Hagenbach], Alsace, 4 July 1918.  Upon returning with his patrol after a reconnaissance on the enemy’s line, Sergeant Purdy was calling the roll of his men and collecting their hand grenades, when the pin of one of the grenades became disengaged.  Seeing that the grenade could not be thrown away without injuring some of the men, Sergeant Purdy called on them all to run, while he picked up three of the grenades, and, bending over, held them against his stomach.  The grenades exploded, killing Sergeant Purdy instantly, but his presence of mind and self-sacrificing act saved the lives of his comrades.”  Pvt. Grant Hill and Pvt. Charles P. Kennedy, both Co. A, as well as Cpl. Leon D. Sweeting (Sweating) of Co. C, were seriously wounded in the explosion.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 7 or 17 March 1895 at Shawano, Wisconsin

Hometown: Marshfield, Wisconsin

Death: 4 July 1918 near Hagenbach, Alsace

Interred: Hillside Cemetery, Marshfield, Wisconsin

Status: ACC

 

Son of Arthur Dellow and Esther S. (Weed) Purdy, Box 632, Marshfield, WI; worked for Soo Line (SOO) Railroad as car repairer, later baggage master at Marshfield depot; enlisted in Co. A, 2D Wis. Inf., WNG, Marshfield, WI on 5 May ‘15; served during Mexican Border Crisis; promoted to Cpl.; assigned to Co. A, 127TH Inf., when 32D Div. was organized; sailed for France aboard USS George Washington on 18 Feb. ‘18; promoted to Sgt.;; parents received telegram on 19 Jul. ‘18, “Deeply regret to inform you that it is officially reported that Sergeant Willard Dealton Purdy, infantry, died from accidental explosion of grenade July 4.”; listed on 20 Jul. ‘18 casualty list; parents were notified ca. 29 May ‘19 that he had earned the DSC; Marshfield’s Willard D. Purdy School was named in his honor; brothers Chester A. and Frank enlisted in Co. A, 2D Wis. Inf., Chester served with Co. A, 127TH Inf., WIA, Frank was med. discharged from WNG, but later served with the Navy during the war.

AlsaceX

209.   

Quick, Charles Arnold

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 11 - 16 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Charles Arnold Quick (ASN: 278426), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in the Argonne Forest, France, 11 - 16 October 1918. Sergeant Quick displayed great bravery in bring up a gun from the 37-mm. platoon, and in the face of enemy machine-gun and sniper fire worked his way well ahead of the front lines and concentrated his fire on the enemy machine-gun nests in such a manner that they were soon put out of action, thereby paving the way for the advancing line.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 6 (1930)

Born: 6 September 1888 at Chicago, Illinois

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 5 August 1947

Interred: Fair Plains Cemetery, Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

Enlisted in Mich. NG; served with HQ Co., 126TH Inf.; depicted in Signal Corps photograph with Cpl. Mark A. Young and Pvt. Albert O. Lull manning 37-mm gun near Dieffmatten, Alsace, 25 Jun. '18; transferred to Army Candidate School (ACS) on 26 Oct. '18; his DSC was presented to him by Col. Edgar H. Campbell, then cdr. of 126TH Inf., during a ceremony at the Grand Rapids armory on Veterans Day '30; married Florence I., adoptive father of at least 1; resided at 523 Ionia Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI, at 1940 census; son, Charles A. 'Bud,' served with USMC in WWII and USAF in Korea and Vietnam, went from Pvt. to Col.

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210.   

Raleigh, Walter J.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company A, Motor Battalion, 107TH Ammunition Train, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Walter J. Raleigh (ASN: 258303), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 107th Ammunition Train, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 4 September 1918.  During a heavy enemy bombardment a shell burst near two ammunition trucks that were being unloaded at a dump, blowing up one truck and setting fire to the other.  Disregarding the warnings of bystanders, Private Raleigh rushed forward, cranked the engine of the burning truck and assisted in backing it to a place of safety while others extinguished the fire.  His conspicuous bravery was the means of saving a large quantity of ammunition.”  Wag. James A. Norton, Pfc. Raleigh, and Pfc. John F. Shedleski worked together to save the truck while delivering powder and fuses to 2D Bn., 121ST FA Regt.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 137 (1918)

Born: 8 May 1896 at Chilton or Menasha, Wisconsin

Hometown: Menasha, Wisconsin

Death: 26 September 1966 at Menasha, Wisconsin

Interred: St. Margaret Cemetery, Neenah, Wisconsin

 

Son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Venn) Raleigh, father NoK, 430 Water St., Menasha, WI (hometown); enlisted in Co. E, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, Menasha, WI; assigned to Co. A, Motor Bn., 107TH Ammo Tr. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre for his actions 2 or 4 Sep. ‘18 at Juvigny; received DSC ca. 20 Mar. ‘19 in Germany (possibly by Gen. Pershing); brother, Daniel J., served in Army during WWII; resided at 37 Main St., Menasha, WI, at ‘40 Census; member of Lenz-Gazecki Post No. 152 of American Legion, Menasha, WI.

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211.   

Raymond, Frank Howard

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Frank H. Raymond (ASN: 281485), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 14 October 1918.  In the attack on Cote Dame Marie, the 126th Infantry was held up owing to intense machine-gun fire and grenades.  Corporal Raymond volunteered as a member of a combat patrol which cut through the enemy lines, captured ten machine-guns, killed and captured 15 of the enemy, and forced others to surrender.  They cleared that part of the Cote Dame Marie of the enemy, enabling the regiment to continue their advance.”  The patrol was led by Capt. Edward B. Strom and the other members were Cpl. Albert S. Krzykwa, Pfc. Frederick W. McClemens, Pvt. Charles L. Beck, Pvt. William A. Edsall, Pvt. Thomas D. Karps, and Pvt. Albert R. F. Neitzel.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: 16 February 1890 at Kent City, Michigan

Hometown: Fremont, Michigan

Death: 29 October 1939 at Fremont, Michigan

Interred: Maple Grove Cemetery, Fremont, Michigan

 

Father was Canadian immigrant; he enlisted in Michigan National Guard; severely WIA 1 Aug. ‘18; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 “D,” 15 Apr. ‘19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An admirably courageous soldier.  His regiment having been checked by machine guns and grenades he volunteered for a combat patrol and crossing the enemy lines he captured 10 machine guns, killed and made prisoner 15 of the enemy and forced the others to surrender.”; WIA 18 Oct. ’18; earned Purple Heart; married Esther Florence Larson; superintendent of Fremont Canning Co.; former secretary-treasurer of Mich. Canner’s Assn.; president of Fremont Chamber of Commerce.

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212.   

Redeker, Paul W.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company M, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Paul W. Redeker (ASN: 263946), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Sergy, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Corporal Redeker twice volunteered to carry messages from company headquarters to the battalion post of command through heavy machine-gun fire and artillery barrage. He assisted in gathering the elements of the company together after the assault. He volunteered for every dangerous duty and in broad daylight, in full sight of the enemy, dragged wounded to places of shelter.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 13 March 1897 at Manistique, Michigan

Hometown: Manistique, Michigan

Death: 26 July 1956

Interred: Fairview Cemetery, Manistique, Michigan

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During the action near Sergy on July 31, 1918, he voluntarily carried messages through a violent machine-gun fire and an intense artillery barrage exposing himself to the greatest dangers. In broad daylight and in view of the enemy he carried some wounded men to shelter.”; WIA, listed on 4 Nov. '18 casualty list; promoted to Sgt.; attended Mich. College of Mines ca. '20-'21; married Edith R. Ashford at Port Huron, MI on 26 Nov. '20, father of at least 1; mining engineer; resided at Baltic, MI at 1930 census; resided at 1 Algoma St., Adams, MI at 1940 census.

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213.   

Reed, Albert John

Corporal, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 147TH Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Albert J. Reed (ASN: 140281), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 147th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 30 August 1918. While stationed in an observation post which was heavily bombarded with gas and high-explosive shells, Corporal Reed assisted in carrying to the rear through this heavy fire another member of the party who was seriously wounded, it being possible to proceed only by going from one shell hole to another. After accomplishing this mission he returned to his post of duty under the same severe fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 28 October 1894 at San Francisco, California

Hometown: Davis or Hayward, California

Death: 8 May 1974 at Fallon, Nevada

Interred: Churchill County Cemetery, Fallon, Nevada

 

He graduated U. of Calif., College of Agriculture, U. Farm School at Davis, CA in '13; WIA, listed on 24 Dec. '18 casualty list; graduated U. of Nev., College of Agricultural, in '21, varsity football; married Mary Hester Oats, father of at least 2; farm advisor (County Agricultural Agent) for Churchill Co., at Fallon, NV ca. '22; son served during WWII.

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214.   

Reese, William Mark

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 11 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class William Reese (ASN: 2242497), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 11 October 1918. Private Reese displayed exceptional courage in repeatedly crossing an area swept by machine-gun and shell fire to carry messages to battalion headquarters after other soldiers had been killed or wounded in attempting the same mission.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: 28 October 1893 at Hillsboro, Texas

Hometown: San Saba or Brownwood, Texas

Death: 8 April 1967 at Eastland County, Texas

Interred: Eastland City Cemetery, Eastland, Texas

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215.   

*Regan, John Morgan

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company D, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John M. Regan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 1 August 1918. Mortally wounded by enemy fire while leading his platoon, Second Lieutenant Regan remained at the head of his men till he collapsed. He set an example of coolness and fortitude to his command, encouraging them by word and action.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 74 (1919)

Born: 12 February 1886 at Silver City, Idaho

Hometown: Boise, Idaho

Death: 4 August 1918

Interred:

Status: KIA

 

He graduated Santa Clara College in '04, maxima cum laude, prominent athlete there, especially football; worked for Boise Artesian Hot & Cold Water Co.; worked for Overland Co., Ltd.; worked for Associated Charities of Boise; member of Knights of Columbus (Boise Council No. 899), Boise Lodge of Elks, and Boise Commercial Club; coached local high school sports teams; enlisted as Pvt. in Co. H, 2D Idaho Inf., Idaho National Guard, 27 Feb. '12; commissioned 2d Lt. on 11 Jun. '12; promoted to Capt., QM, 7 Mar. '15; resigned his commission and re-enlisted as a Pvt. to serve with his old unit, Co. H, during Mexican Border Crisis; soon promoted to Sgt.; commissioned 2d Lt. again; mobilized with Co. H again ca. Jul. '17; trained at Camp Greene, NC; assigned to 116TH Engr. Regt. when 41ST Div. was organized; departed for Camp Mills, NY on 26 Oct. '17; sailed for France 26 Nov. '17; landed in France 10 Dec. '17; 41ST Div. was designated a replacement div. when it reached France; he was assigned to rear echelon duties and requested transfer to the infantry; transferred to Co. D, 128TH Inf.; either date of death is wrong or date of action for DSC is wrong, both events occurred the same day, either 1 Aug. or 4 Aug.; listed as KIA on 6 Oct. '18 casualty report; listed as “wounded in action, degree undetermined, previously reported killed in action” on 19 and 21 Oct. '18 casualty reports; listed as “killed in action, previously reported wounded in action, degree undetermined” on 21 Nov. '18 casualty report; interred at Morris Hill Cemetery, Boise, ID; namesake of John M. Regan Post No. 2 of American Legion at Boise, ID.

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216.   

Reich, Louis Bernard

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Louis B. Reich, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 1 August 1918. Lieutenant Reich voluntarily went forward and exposed himself in order to draw the enemy machine-gun fire so as to locate their position. He succeeded in ascertaining their positions and while returning to his front line he was hit and severely wounded by a shell fragment; but refusing to be evacuated, he returned to his organization and remained in action throughout the engagement.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 5 April 1886 at Rome, Wisconsin

Hometown: Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin

Death: 5 June 1928

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin

 

born at Rome, WI; mother Amelia Reich; NoK Leulla (Luella, Lulla) A. (Augusta Catherine or Katherine Augusta) (Hake) Reich, wife, 304 Lincoln St., Fort Atkinson, WI, father of at least 2; worked at Northwestern Manufacturing Co., Fort Atkinson, WI, ca. '15; 2d lt. in Co. B, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Fort Atkinson, WI, during Mexican Border Crisis and when mobilized on 15 Jul. '17; served with HQ Co., 128TH Inf.; earned DSC for his actions 1 Aug. '18 near Cierges, voluntarily drew fire in order to locate enemy machinegun positions, he succeeded but was severely WIA by shrapnel in the process, refused evacuation until the battle was concluded; 1st Lt. in WNG Reserve ca. '20; assigned to Trp. F, 105TH Cav. at Fort Atkinson, WI after '25 and prior to '27, served with that unit until death; served with Fort Atkinson F. D. ca. '23; injured in accident 17 Dec. '23, the new fire truck was responding to a fire at A. C. Tellerson general store at Rockdale, WI, when it hit a culvert while doing 60 mph on the Cambridge highway 4 miles out of Fort Atkinson, 2 firefighters killed (Frank Hoffman and Herman Smith died soon after reaching hosp.), 2 severely injured (William M. Gross died 4 days later, Adolph Uherr was not expected to survive but lived until 1969), 2 seriously injured (Tony Statz, Reich suffered broken ribs and leg), 1 escaped injury (Chief August Hausen).

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217.   

*Ritt, Maurice J. V.

First Lieutenant (Infantry), Army of France

French Mission, attached to 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant of Infantry Maurice J. V. Ritt, Army of France, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with the French Mission, 127th U.S. Infantry (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 31 August 1918. Lieutenant Ritt assisted in establishing an advanced machine-gun position in the village of Juvigny, the fire of which forced the surrender of 32 enemy prisoners. This gallant officer assisted in forming a new line and went from one end to the other, picking up stragglers and getting the line organized, exposing himself to machine-gun fire throughout the operation. Three times he went through heavy fire for the purpose of maintaining liaison with a French division on the right.”  1st Lt. Ritt and 1st Lt. Stanley A. Jewasinski worked together to capture the 32 Germans, at the time they were acting as liaison between the 127TH Inf. and an adjacent French unit.  1st Lt. Jewasinski was bestowed the Silver Star Citation for his role in the event.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 81 (1919)

Born: at France

Hometown: in France, possibly á Ollioules, Var., France

Death: 18 October 1918

Interred:

Status: DW

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218.   

*Ritzert, Charles T.

Private, U.S. Army

Company G, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July to 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Charles T. Ritzert (ASN: 1953948), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company G, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Courmont and St. Martin, France, 31 July to 4 August 1918. Throughout the battle to force passage of the Ourcq River and capture the heights beyond, Private Ritzert, a stretcher bearer, worked day and night, evacuating wounded under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire. On 4 August under violent shell fire opposite Mont St. Martin, he made repeated trips between the firing line and dressing station until he was killed by a shell.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 14 July 1887 at St. Joseph or Chicora, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Chicora, Pennsylvania

Death: 4 August 1918

Interred: memorialized on Tablets of the Missing at Aisne-Marne American Cemetery; also memorialized at St. Joseph's Cemetery, North Oakland, PA

Status: MIA

 

He worked as oil well driller; entered service ca. Dec. '17; served with Co. G (D), 125TH Inf.; also awarded Croix de Guerre.

Aisne-MarneX

219.   

Roberts, Claude R.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company G, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Claude R. Roberts (ASN: 284299), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company G, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Terny-Sorny, France, 1 September 1918. Although wounded in the left hand and forearm, Corporal Roberts remained with his platoon throughout the attack and rendered valuable assistance in silencing enemy snipers by his effective rifle fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 44 (1919)

Born: 13 December 1893 at Racine, Wisconsin

Hometown: Wausau, Wisconsin

Death: 8 May 1968 at Wausau, Wisconsin

Interred: Pine Grove Cemetery, Wausau, Wisconsin

 

NoK Mrs. Anna Stubbs Roberts, wife, 802 10th Ave., South Wausau, WI; NoK Mrs. J. B. Baldwin, 802 10th Ave. S., Wausau, WI; enlisted in Co. G, 3D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Wausau, WI; was musician in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. G, 128TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre; commissioned at some point; served in post-war WNG; 2d Lt. in Co. G, 128TH Inf. before he transferred to WNG Reserve 30 Jun. '23; helped organized Burns Post No. 388 of VFW at Wausau, WI.

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220.   

Rogers, Verne Ernest

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

104TH Infantry Regiment, 26TH ‘Yankee’ Division, A.E.F., later transferred to Company E, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division

Date of Action: 13 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Verne E. Rogers, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Division, A.E.F., near Avillers, France, 13 September 1918. When a section of his platoon was being held up by machine-gun fire, Lieutenant Rogers directed an attack on the nest, while he and a corporal attacked from the opposite side, driving out and capturing three of the enemy.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

Born: 25 February 1891 or 1890 at Blissfield, Michigan

Hometown: Blissfield, Michigan

Death: 10 May 1966

Interred: Pleasant View Cemetery, Blissfield, Michigan

 

Father, W. J. Rogers, NoK, 236 State St., Blissfield, MI; also had ties to Tecumseh, MI and New Athens, OH; graduated Alma College, “all-state quarter back and all-around athlete”; attended U. of Wyo. ca. '13, member of Cadet Corps; history teacher and athletic coach at Hastings, MI ca. '14-'16, trained winning football and baseball teams; transferred to Decatur, IL, H.S. ca. Jul. '16, history teacher and head coach; attended Second Officers' Training Camp at Ft. Sheridan, IL, 27 Aug.-28 Nov. '17, assigned to 22D Co., 11TH Regt., some comrade described him as “an athletic coach who could carry two packs easier than many of his comrades could lug one”; served with 104TH Inf., 26TH Div.; earned DSC for his actions 13 Sep. '18 near Avillers, led attack on German machinegun nest; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 17.468 "D," 16 May '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, "A portion of his platoon having been stopped by the fire of a machine gun he reduced this resistance by attacking the piece on both sides with several men, taking three prisoners."; transferred to Co. E, 128TH Inf.; served with Army of Occupation; promoted to 1st Lt. ca. Jan. '19; 1st Lt. in Officers Reserve Corps ca. '20; graduate student at U. of Mich. ca. '25; married Marguerite Finlay Swanson, father of at least 3; son Harold served during WWII; resided at Ludlow, IL ca. '50.

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221.   

Rolain, Ray C.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Ray C. Rolain (ASN: 275031), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Juvigny, France, 31 August 1918. Sergeant Rolain attacked a machine-gun nest single-handed after the four soldiers accompanying him had been wounded. He killed the operator of one gun and captured the remainder of two gun crews and both guns.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: at Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Hometown: Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Death: 27 February 1926

 

He enlisted in Co. L, 2D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Rhinelander, WI in '14; was Pfc. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. L, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; earned DSC for his actions 31 Aug. '18 at Juvigny, single-handedly attacked machinegun nest; also earned 2 Croix de Guerre, 1 w/palm and 1 w/star (not sure if silver or gilt); served in post-war WNG; 2d Lt. in Co. B, 127TH Inf. when it received federal recognition 7 May '20 during post-war reorganization of 32D Div.; promoted 1st Lt. on 25 May '22; resigned in '23; married Myrtle Roepcke 21 Mar. '25.

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222.   

*Rundquist, Oscar Adolph

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Oscar A. Rundquist (ASN: 280648), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Though mortally wounded early in the assault, he continued to lead his men in an attack on German machine-gun nests that were holding up the advance of the American troops. With marked coolness and bravery, he encouraged his men until the objective had been reached, shortly after which he fell dead from loss of blood.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: at Big Rapids, Michigan

Hometown: Big Rapids, Michigan

Death: 9 October 1918

Interred: Highland View Cemetery, Big Rapids, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard and was assigned to Co. I, 126TH Inf., when 32D Div. was organized; his brother, Oxal R., was also Mich. NG and served in same unit.

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223.   

Sack, William

First Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Sergeant William Sack (ASN: 280641), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Assuming command of his company after all the officers had become casualties, Sergeant Sack skillfully maneuvered it in an attack on enemy machine-gun nests, which were hindering the advance. He was severely wounded early in the engagement, but he continued to lead and encourage his men until he received a second wound, which rendered him a cripple for life.”  While not specified in his citation, History of the 126TH Infantry in the War With Germany states that 1st Sgt. Sack personally assisted in the reduction of some key enemy machinegun emplacements.  He and Sgt. Archie M. Zavitz, a platoon leader, crawled forward through heavy fire to attack the machinegun nests with rifle grenades.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 126 (1919)

Born: 1892 at Keno, Michigan

Hometown: Big Rapids, Michigan

Death: 31 January 1963

Interred: Highland View Cemetery, Big Rapids, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard; WIA 1 Aug. '18; twice severely WIA 9 Oct. '18 while leading the unit near Romagne after company cdr. was WIA.

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224.   

Salik, Alexander W.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F. (Many references erroneously list unit as 120TH Inf., 30TH Div.)

Date of Action: 28 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Alexander Salik (ASN: 281089), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, [126th] Infantry Regiment, [32nd] Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 28 August 1918. Sergeant Salik, regardless of wounds and of mustard gas burns previously received, rejoined and advanced with his company in the attack, and assisted in reforming a platoon after it had suffered severe casualties.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: 8 August or 3 August 1895 at Poland

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 8 December 1887 at Grand Rapids, Michigan

Interred: Resurrection Cemetery, Wyoming, Michigan

 

Enlisted in Michigan National Guard; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 13.069 "D," 23 Jan. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “At a critical moment when half of his men were disabled he reformed his platoon under a most intense fire. Although severely wounded before the attack and suffering from mustard gas burns he remained at his post during the entire action and thanks to his remarkable bravery and devotion he was able to reestablish order in his platoon which had been disorganized by heavy losses.”; married Martha M. Garnowicz (Gornowicz) on 26 Aug. '19, father of 3.

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225.   

Schuchart, Frank

Private, U.S. Army

Company L, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August & 8 November 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Frank Schuchart (ASN: 2057101), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 30 August 1918, and in the Argonne Forest, France, 8 November 1918. During the attack near Juvigny, Private Schuchart, while acting as runner, repeatedly exposed himself to severe enemy artillery and machine-gun fire. After the attack he voluntarily joined in the work of clearing the field of wounded under heavy enemy fire. On 8 November while carrying an important message he was severely wounded in the left leg. He stopped in a shell hole, dressed the wound himself, proceeded to deliver the message and did not report for treatment.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 95 (1919)

Born: 14 December 1895 at Liberty or Lancaster, Wisconsin

Hometown: Belmont, Wisconsin

Death: 23 September 1976 at Junction City, Oregon

Interred: Saint Rose Cemetery, Monroe, Oregon

 

Son of George and Anna (Ertz) Schuchart, mother NoK, Darlington, WI; WIA 8 Nov. '18; earned Purple Heart; married Viola Briggs at Jacksonville, IL on 10 Sep. '29; moved to OR in '54.

Oise-AisneX, Meuse-ArgonneX

226.   

Schultheiss, Bernard A. (Schultheis)

Private, U.S. Army

Machine Gun Company, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Bernard Schultheis (ASN: 264586), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Machine-Gun Company, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Terny-Sorny, north of Soissons, France, 1 September 1918.  When the infantry was advancing in a position exposed to cross fire, he volunteered and carried a message to the advancing troops, informing them that a machine-gun barrage laid down on the enemy emplacements was friendly fire from a unit not in their support and acting without orders to cover their advance.  He delivered the message, returned across an open field swept by enemy machine-guns and thereby made it possible for the infantry unit to advance 400 meters and gain its objective.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: May 1893 at St. Louis, Michigan

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

 

Son of Andrew and Elizabeth Sarah ‘Lizzie’ (Kiter) Schultheiss (Schultheis), father NoK, 1015 Smith St., Flint, MI; may have enlisted in MG Co., 33D Mich. Inf., Mich. NG, Flint, MI (that unit became MG Co., 125TH Inf., when 32D Div. was organized); earned Distinguished Service Cross for his actions 1 Sep. ‘18 as message runner near Terny-Sorny; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star for his actions 1 Sep. ‘18 as message runner near Terny-Sorny; resided at 510 W. 5th Ave., Flint, MI, and worked at an automobile factory ca. ‘20; brother Pvt. Alfred J. served during WWI.

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227.   

Schultz, Arthur

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Arthur Schultz (ASN: 284565), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 30 August 1918. Sergeant Schultz displayed great courage and coolness during an attack in going forward under heavy fire and firing upon machine-gun emplacements. Later, when a retirement was ordered, he remained in advance of the line to carry back the wounded, in spite of heavy fire from artillery and machine guns.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: at Menasha, Wisconsin

Hometown: Neenah, Wisconsin

 

Mother Mrs. Robert Schultz, NoK, 217 E. Water St., Neenah, WI; also earned Croix de Guerre.

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228.   

Seeler, Wilfred

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Wilfred Seeler (ASN: 1321), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., southwest of Fismes, France, 5 August 1918. During the forward movement of the first battalion, 125th Infantry, a large number of the company to which he was attached were wounded while crossing an open field. At this point the artillery fire was accurate and intense, but Private First Class Seeler disregarded all possibilities of personal injuries and remained upon the field until he had administered first aid to all his fallen comrades.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: circa 1896 at Canada

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

 

NoK Mrs. Bedelia Seeler, Shelldrake, MI; resided at 353 Medbury St., Detroit, MI (hometown); earned DSC for his actions 5 Aug. '18 as a medic near Fismes; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Under a violent artillery fire he remained at his post until he had administered first-aid to all of his wounded comrades. By his bravery and his coolness under fire he saved the lives of many.”; married Mary Martin; resided at 4697 Dickerson, Detroit, MI at 1940 census.

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229.   

*Sharp, Don Edward

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Don E. Sharp (ASN: 17106), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., during the Aisne-Marne offensive, France, 31 July 1918. Though he had been twice wounded, Private Sharp continued to render first aid to the wounded men of his command until killed by enemy fire. His splendid example of high courage and coolness under intense enemy machine-gun and artillery fire and his unselfish devotion to duty inspired his comrades to great endeavors.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 14 (1923)

Born: 3 July 1897 at Gladwin, Michigan

Hometown: Saginaw, Michigan

Death: 31 July 1918

Interred: Arlington Nation Cemetery

Status: KIA

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230.   

Sharp, Robert Earl

First Lieutenant, U.S. Army

Company D, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 10 November 1918

Citation Needed - SYNOPSIS: The citation for 1st Lt. Sharp’s Distinguished Service Cross does not appear in the usual publications and databases. However, according to an article published in his hometown newspaper on 12 Sep. ‘19, he was bestowed with the decoration. A transcript of the article, provided by his grandson, summarizes 1st Lt. Sharp’s actions thusly: “Another Richmond man has brought honors back to his mother from service on the front. First Lieutenant Robert E. Sharp Company D, 128th Infantry, 32nd Division, has received the Distinguished Service Cross, for bravery in action. Sharp was in command of his company during the Argonne Meuse offensive and on November 10, the day before the signing on the armistice, he performed the work that won him the citation. On that date, after his company had crossed the river suffering heavy casualties, the remnants were entirely surrounded by the enemy, and cut off from the battalion. Sharp, according to the citation, "with unusual coolness and bravery," led his men out of the trap to their own lines, without further casualties. His company participated in some of the fiercest fighting of the war, and in this one engagement lost all but 35 of the 150 men that started with the offensive". Sharp was discharged from the service June 2, but it was not until recently that the decoration was received.” It is likely that his citation was overlooked in some of those books and websites due to confusion with the other Lt. Robert E. Sharp who also earned the Distinguished Service Cross during the war.

General Orders:

Born: 5 April 1897 at Washington Township, Randolph County, Indiana

Hometown: Richmond, Indiana

Death: 12 October 1939 at VA Hospital in Hines, Illinois

Interred: Earlham Cemetery, Richmond, Indiana

 

He entered service 21 Apr. '17, one of the first Richmond men to do so; assigned to 35TH Inf., that unit was stationed at Nogales, AZ during the war; transferred on 5 Jan. '18; overseas ca. Sep. '18; assigned to 32D Div. on 20 Sep. '18; assigned to Co. L, 128TH Inf. a few days later; promoted 1st Lt. on 3 Nov. '18; assumed cmd. of Co. D in early Nov. '18 after all of its officers were killed or wounded; discharged 2 Jun. '19; worked in real estate and insurance and/or sales promoter and reseller for Standard Oil Co.; fell seriously ill in Aug. '39 at home in Indianapolis, IN; passed away 12 Oct. '39 at VA Hospital at Hines, IL; interred at Earlham Cemetery, Richmond, IN.

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231.   

Shaskan, Samuel

Private, U.S. Army

Headquarters Company, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Samuel Shaskan (ASN: 282956), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 28 August 1918. Going out from the front line through barbed-wire entanglements, under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, Private Shaskan brought back to safety a wounded soldier.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: at Russia

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

 

NoK Abraham Shaskan, NoK, 71 W. 23rd St., New York, NY; resided at 1849 Warren Ave., Chicago, IL.

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232.   

Shedleski, John F. (Shedlewski)

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company A, Motor Battalion, 107TH Ammunition Train, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class John F. Shedlewski (ASN: 258348), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 107th Ammunition Train, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 4 September 1918.  During a heavy enemy bombardment a shell burst near two ammunition trucks that were being unloaded at a dump, blowing up one truck and setting fire to the other.  Disregarding the warnings of bystanders, Private Shedlewski rushed forward and assisted in throwing the burning cushions and cover off the truck and backing it to a place of safety.  His conspicuous bravery was the means of saving a large quantity of ammunition.”  Wag. James A. Norton, Pfc. Walter J. Raleigh, and Pfc. Shedleski worked together to save the truck while delivering powder and fuses to 2D Bn., 121ST FA Regt.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: circa 1892 at Menasha, Wisconsin

Hometown: Menasha, Wisconsin

 

Son of Victor and Julia A. Shedleski, mother German immigrant; father preceded him in death, mother remarried, Mrs. Henry Brzycki (Briski), 537 5th St., Menasha, WI; enlisted in Co. E, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Menasha, WI; Sgt. Harry W. enlisted in same unit; assigned to  Co. A, Motor Bn., 107TH Ammo Tr. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned and Croix de Guerre for his actions 2 or 4 Sep. ‘18 at Juvigny; received DSC ca. 20 Mar. ‘19 in Germany (possibly by Gen. Pershing); attended 50th anniversary of Co. E at American Legion on 12 Aug. ’67.

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233.   

Shelor, Charles Alfred

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 15 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles A. Shelor, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with [Company K] 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in the Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 15 October 1918. Under heavy fire, Lieutenant Shelor made a reconnaissance of woods infested by enemy machine-guns and snipers, locating another battalion of his regiment, from which his own had become separated, and securing information which made it possible to continue the attack next day.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 26 July 1893 at Roanoke, Virginia

Hometown: Richmond, Virginia

Death: 15 October 1964

Interred: Evergreen Burial Park, Roanoke, Virginia

 

Married, father of (at least) 1; entered service ca. 4 Sep. '17; assigned to Co. F, 318TH Inf., 80TH Div.; trained at Camp Lee, VA; promoted Sgt. ca. Oct. '17; sailed for France with that unit; commissioned at some point; transferred to Co. K, 127TH Inf. at some point.

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234.   

Sheridan, Charles L.

Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army

1ST Battalion, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July & 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Charles L. Sheridan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., on Hill No. 230, near Cierges, France, 31 July and 1 August 1918. Captain Sheridan demonstrated notable courage and leadership by taking command of the remnants of two companies and leading them up the hill and into the woods against violent fire from the enemy. His grit and leadership inspired his men to force the enemy back. He personally shot and killed three of the enemy and under his direction six machines were put out of action and the hill captured.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: 6 June 1886 at Marshalltown or Linn County, Iowa

Hometown: Bozeman, Montana

Death: 20 October 1953

Interred: Forestvale Cemetery, Helena, Montana

 

He graduated Gallatin Co. (MT) H. S.; attended Mont. State College; worked for Post Office and as a forest ranger; enlisted in 2D Mont. Inf., Montana National Guard, in '06; promoted Cpl. In Feb. '08; promoted Sgt. in Sep. '09; promoted 1st Sgt. in '10; commissioned 2d Lt. in Feb. '13; promoted 1st Lt. in Jul. '13; served during Mexican Border Crisis; Capt. and cdr. of Co. A, 163D Inf. when 41ST Div. was organized; transferred to 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf.; Alsace, Chateau-Thierry, Ourcq River, also earned French Croix de Guerre w/silver star and Belgian Croix de Guerre (Belgian War Cross); recommended for Medal of Honor; WIA 5 times on 3 separate dates (4 Aug. '18 at Fismes, 5 Sep. '18 at Juvigny, 14 Oct. '18 at Romagne); earned Purple Heart w/3 OLCs; succeeded by Capt. Arthur R. C. Langholff as cdr. of 1ST Bn., 128TH Inf. on 14 Oct. '18; returned to U.S. aboard Zealandia on 22 Dec. '18; served in Regular Army after the war; Maj. and cdr. of 3D Bn., 49TH Inf. at Ft. Leavenworth, KS ca. May '19; married Hebe M. Roberts in '24; promoted Col. at some point; resigned from Regular Army ca. '20 due to problems with his war-time injuries; served in post-war Mont. NG; appointed Adjutant Gen. for Mont. in '21; promoted Brig. Gen.; selected Mont.'s Outstanding Soldier by DAV in '22; retired from military in '33; appointed Collector U.S. Customs for MT, WY & ID by Pres. Calvin Coolidge in '26, reappointed by Pres. Herbert Hoover in '30; chief of police at Great Falls, MT ca. '33-'36; later chief of police at Helena, MT; appointed Mont. Highway Patrol Supervisor ca. 30 Jan. '41; elected Mont. State Treasurer ca. ‘52; passed away 20 Oct. '53 at age 66, suffered heart attack during hunting trip; namesake of Col. Charles L. Sheridan Trophy, awarded for marksmanship by Mont. NG ca. '30s-'40s; Col. Sheridan Hall, a U.S. Army Reserve Center on Euclid Ave., Helena, MT, was named in his honor ca. Apr. '58.

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235.   

Shipman, Stephen V.

Private, U.S. Army

Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Stephen V. Shipman (ASN: 278336), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in the woods north of Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 1 August 1918. After his company had entered the woods north of Cierges Private Shipman and another soldier maneuvered around a machine-gun which was causing many casualties in the company and reached a shell hole, after crossing an open space that was swept by hostile fire. From here they killed the crew of the machine-gun, captured the gun, and turned it on the enemy.”  The other Soldier was Sgt. Orrie G. Thompson, also Mich. NG, also Co. C.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: at Benton Harbor, Michigan

Hometown: Bangor, Michigan

 

Mother Mrs. Louise Shipman, NoK, 60 Safirk Pl., Buffalo, NY; Michigan National Guard; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During an attack near Cierges on August 1, 1918, he displayed great courage and a remarkable sense of duty. Assisted by one comrade he rushed across open ground under bursts of enemy fire, killed the crew of a machinegun and turned the piece against the enemy.”; WIA 1 Aug. '18.

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236.   

Shirley, Walter L.

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Headquarters, 2D Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 18 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter L. Shirley, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 18 October 1918. Going forward to the outpost line on a reconnaissance mission, First Lieutenant Shirley was wounded, but, upon receiving first-aid treatment, returned to his position within 30 yards of the enemy, and, although under heavy fire, continued his observations until he had obtained the desired information.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 81 (1919)

Born: at New Carlisle, Ohio

Hometown: Jackson, Michigan

 

Mother Mrs. Mary J. Shirley, NoK, Quincy, MI; resided at 127 W. Wesley St., Jackson, MI; enlisted in Michigan National Guard; Pfc. in Co. E, 126TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; commissioned 2d Lt. and assigned to Co. F, 126TH Inf.; assigned Scout Off., 2D Bn., 126TH Inf.; also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 14.438 ''D," 15 Mar. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “A very talented observer who displayed fine courage in watching the movements of the enemy under violent bombardments. He obtained accurate information and contributed to the destruction of the enemy machine-gun nests.”; evacuated to hosp.; returned to duty 26 Oct. '18; promoted 1st Lt. 9 Nov. '18; assigned Regt. Intel. Off., HQ, 126TH Inf. 16 Nov. '18; assigned to Co. F, 126TH Inf. 5 Dec. '18; assigned to HQ Co., 126TH Inf. 6 Jan. '19.

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237.   

Shore, Laurel M.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Laurel Shore (ASN: 280799), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States at Ivory, France, 4 October 1918. Corporal Shore displayed utter disregard for personal danger in repeatedly carrying messages across an area 1,000 meters wide which was being subjected to heavy artillery and machine-gun fire. In carrying messages between company and battalion headquarters he repeatedly passed through German barrages.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 126 (1919)

Born: 26 March 1898 at Osceola County, Michigan

Hometown: Evart, Michigan

Death: 8 March 1980 at Big Rapids, Michigan

Interred: Highland View Cemetery, Big Rapids, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard; married Mary Etta (Etta M.), father of 4; resided at 523 S. Church St., Flint, MI at 1940 census.

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238.   

Siebert, Walter D.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 16 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Walter Siebert (ASN: 274261), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 16 October 1918. Locating an enemy machine-gun nest, Private Siebert advanced on it alone and, by accurate fire from his automatic rifle, killed or wounded the members of the crew, thereby saving his company heavy casualties.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 18 January 1896 at Gresham, White Lake, or Town of Seneca, Shawano Co., Wisconsin

Hometown: Shepley, Wisconsin

Death: 9 February 1973 in hospital at Tigerton, Wisconsin

Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Wittenberg, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. F, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Shawano, WI on 20 Apr. '17; assigned to Co. F, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; promoted Pfc. On 1 Mar. '18; WIA 30 Jul. '18; promoted Sgt. 23 Oct. '18; discharged 18 May '19; arrived home 19 May '19; bought a farm in Town of Birnamwood, Shawano Co., WI; married Erna Dumke at Wittenberg, WI on 15 Jul. '22, father of 3; moved to Wittenberg in '63.

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239.   

Skrypeck, Andrew ‘Andy’

Private, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Andy Skrypeck (ASN: 1340), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., southwest of Fismes, France, 5 August 1918. During the forward movement of the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry, a large number of the company to which he was attached were wounded while crossing an open field. At this point the artillery fire was very accurate and intense, but Private Skrypeck disregarded all possibilities of personal injury and remained upon the field until he had administered first aid to all his fallen comrades.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: circa 1895 at Austrian Poland

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

 

NoK Mrs. Mary Jonecke, 408 1st Ave., Great Falls, MT; resided at 227 Clippert Ave., Detroit, MI; enlisted ca. '17, possibly Michigan National Guard; served with Med. Det., 125TH Inf.; returned to Poland ca. Jun. '24; on 12 Nov. '77, Andrew's son, the Very Reverend Stanley Skrypek, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Polish National Catholic Church at New York Mills, NY, received a telegram from Brig. Gen. Robert B. Solomon, Chief of Army Public Affairs, on behalf of President Jimmy Carter, to memorialize his father; telegram said:

“We pay tribute to Andrew Skrypeck, who as a young boy immigrated to the United States from Poland. At the age of 22, not waiting to be selected, he volunteered to serve his country in the U.S. Army and he served with heroic distinction with the medical detachment, 125th Infantry, 32nd Division, American Expeditionary Forces in France in 1918. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism while administering medical aid to his fallen comrades.

“Sickness in his family later caused him to leave his adopted country and he returned to Poland to care for the family farm. During the German occupation of World War II, he endured torture, beatings, and starvation at the hands of the Gestapo. Andrew survived the war, but died in Poland, never realizing his dream of returning to the United States.

“Andrew Skrypeck was one of life's true heroes. He died with the dream to return to the freedom of his adopted home. His life and heroic deeds stand as examples for those of us who are still privileged to march in the ranks of the living in this free land.”

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240.   

Slagsvol, Oscar Trygve

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Oscar T. Slagsvol, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near St. Gilles, France, 3 August 1918. Commanding the battalion patrols, Lieutenant Slagsvol was engaged continuously throughout the day in making reconnaissances under heavy fire. Although wounded, he preceded the battalion into the enemy's position and continued to perform his duties until he was overcome by exhaustion.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 44 (1919)

Born: 30 October 1888 at Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Hometown: Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Death: January 1969

Interred: Lakeview Cemetery, Eau Claire, Wisconsin

 

He attended U. of Wis., he was 2nd year student of Course of Commerce Nov. '10; attended First Officers Training Camp at Fort Sheridan, IL, which ran 15 May-15 Aug. '17, assigned to 2D Btry.; “...unsuccessfully sought a commission in the First Fort Sheridan officers camp. He entered the national guard upon leaving the camp”; he was Sgt. in HQ, 6TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, when promoted 2d Lt. ca. 14 Dec. '17; WIA 3 Aug. '18 near St. Gilles; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC, Chevalier de Légion d'Honneur (French Legion of Honor), Chevalier de l'Ordre de l'Etoile Noire (Order of Black Star), and 2 Croix de Guerre; promoted 1st Lt. ca. Jan. '19.

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241.   

Smith, Clarence W.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Clarence W. Smith (ASN: 262188), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Corporal Smith was seriously wounded in the arm by machine-gun fire during the advance on the heights north of the River Ourcq. After receiving first aid he crawled slowly forward in the face of hostile fire and assisted in giving first aid to a lieutenant who had been severely wounded, and then, with his one available arm, assisted in carrying the officer to the rear.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: at McArthur, Ohio

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Co. A, 33D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Flint, MI; was Pvt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. E, 125TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although severely wounded, he continued to advance under violent fire of machine guns in order to aid a wounded officer. Although he could use only one arm he displayed extraordinary heroism and endurance in aiding to transport this officer to shelter.”

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242.   

Smith, Daniel R.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company H, 16TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 20 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Daniel R. Smith (ASN: 43340), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 16th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Soissons, France, 20 July 1918. Sergeant Smith led three squads against an artillery position which was holding up the advance of his company by direct fire. After suffering heavy casualties, he with two others charged the enemy position. Due to his courage and leadership four 77-millimeter guns were captured and 50 of the enemy forced to surrender.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 35 (1920)

Born: at Germany

Hometown: Reading, Pennsylvania

 

I believe Sgt. Smith was assigned to the 1ST Div., not the 32D Div.  I will leave him listed here, as is, until I can locate more definitive information.

 

243.   

Smith, George Leo

Private, U.S. Army

Medical Detachment, 125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 11 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private George L. Smith (ASN: 3626764), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Medical Detachment, 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., northeast of Gesnes, France, 11 October 1918. Private Smith established a collecting point for the wounded in the valley north of Hill 258, during the attack of his battalion. The unit on the right, which was being subjected to an extremely heavy machine-gun fire from the enemy was unable to advance, thus exposing the right flank of his battalion to a severe machine-gun fire. The terrain afforded no protection to anyone attempting to cross, and a runner while attempting to cross this terrain was severely wounded, falling in an exposed position. Private Smith, with splendid heroism and courage, dashed across the exposed area and carried his wounded comrade in to our lines and rendered first aid.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 16 (1929)

Born: circa 1896 at Frankstown Township, Blair County, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania

Death: circa 7 September 1965

 

He graduated U. of Penn. Pharmaceutical College on 5 Jun. '18; 2 brothers also served; married Mae Pennington; resided at 1216 or 1226 S. Mill St., New Castle, PA, when he received his DSC ca. Sep. '29.

Meuse-ArgonneX

244.   

Smith, Ivan H.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Ivan H. Smith (ASN: 262172), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., during the forcing of a passage of the River Ourcq and the capture of the heights beyond, near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Sergeant Smith captured a machine-gun single-handed and after being wounded while so doing so, reorganized his platoon before being taken back for first aid.”  Some references suggest he was one of two men who assisted Cpl. Gustave A. Michalka, who earned DSC for similar event, but Smith acted alone according to this citation.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 132 (1918)

Born: 8 August 1895 at Bay Port, Michigan

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

Death: 27 August 1969

Interred: Chapel Hill Gardens West, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois

 

He enlisted in Co. A, 33D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Flint, MI; was Pvt. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. E, 125TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During the battle of the Ourcq near Cierges on July 31, 1918, he captured a machine gun. After having been wounded he reorganized his platoon before going to be bandaged.”; married Ida M., father of Ivan H., Jr.; resided at 1442 Delaware Ave., Flint, MI, and worked as clerk at Flint Evening Tribune ca. '22; son was Lt. (jg) in Navy during WWII.

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245.   

Smith, Maxwell E.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company D, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Maxwell E. Smith (ASN: 279478), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company D, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, northwest of Verdun, France, 3 October 1918. In an attack on German strong points, Sergeant Smith was wounded early in the action by a shell fragment, but after dressing his wound himself he immediately rejoined his organization. Upon hearing that his company commander had been killed, he reported this fact to the regimental post of command, and although he was urged to go to the rear for medical aid, he again went forward and assumed command of the company, remaining in charge until the following morning. His courage and disregard for danger were an inspiration to his men and a thorough demonstration of his loyalty and devotion to duty.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

Born: 15 March 1897 at Ionia, Michigan

Hometown: Ionia, Michigan

Death: 25 December 1971

Interred: Oak Hill Cemetery, Ionia, Michigan

 

He also earned Italian Croce di Guerra; served in post-war Michigan National Guard; 2d Lt. assigned to Co. H, 126TH Inf. at Ionia, MI when unit received federal recognition 6 Apr. '21 during post-war reorganization of 32D Div.; married Gladys D. Stowell, father of 3; married Doris E.; resided at Berlin, MI at 1940 census.

Meuse-ArgonneX

246.   

Smith, Nickolas

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Nickolas Smith (ASN: 280883), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near St. Georges, France, 14 October 1918. After his platoon had been stopped and disorganized by machine-gun fire, Sergeant Smith with another soldier, reorganized the platoon and led it in a charge on an enemy machine-gun nest, capturing it, together with one officer and 20 men.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 89 (1919)

Born: at Grand Rapids, Michigan

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

Father Albert Smith, NoK, 628 Jefferson Ave., Grand Rapids, MI; Michigan National Guard.

Meuse-ArgonneX

247.   

Smith, Warde B.

First Lieutenant (Medical Corps), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 21 July - 7 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Medical Corps) Warde B. Smith, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 21 July to 7 August 1918. Maintaining dressing stations close to the advanced lines, under heavy enemy machine-gun and artillery fire, Lieutenant Smith continued day and night to render first aid and to evacuate the wounded. On August 2 his aid station, due to withdrawals of the Infantry to take a more advantageous position, was left in advance of the front line. With a score of severely wounded men to evacuate, Lieutenant Smith remained at the advanced position for six hours under intense enemy fire until all patients had been given every possible care and carried to a place of safety. His coolness, courage, and devotion to duty save the lives of many men.”  Sgt. John W. Doyle and Pvt. William Krause also earned DSC for assisting him in evacuation of wounded on 1 Aug. '18.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 9 (1923)

Born: at Frankfort, Ohio

Hometown: Frankfort, Ohio

Death: 16 May 1946

 

He graduated Frankfort H. S. in '06; graduated Ohio-Miami Med. College of U. of Cincinnati as well as U. of Mich.; married Eula J. Mallow ca. '11, father of at least 1 daughter; practiced medicine from his home at Frankfort, OH; officer in Med. Reserve Corp, called to active duty at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN ca. Sep. '17; served with 125TH Inf.; promoted Capt. ca. Jan. '19; returned to his practice at Frankfort, OH; charter member of Joseph Ellsworth White Post No. 483 of American Legion at Frankfort, OH; his daughter, 1 of the 1st female pilots in Southern, OH, served as a renowned WAVES pilot during WWII.

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248.   

Snowden, Samuel

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company H, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Samuel Snowden (ASN: 262922), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company H, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 31 July 1918. Exposed to intensive artillery and machine-gun fire, Sergeant Snowden crawled to the crest of a hill and administered first aid to a wounded man, thus saving his life. While doing so, he was wounded in the right leg above the knee, but undaunted, he picked up another more seriously wounded than himself and brought him to a dressing station.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 2 (1931), Amended by Supplement 1

Born: circa 1892 at Cheboygan, Michigan

Hometown: Wyandotte, Michigan

 

Father Jonathon Snowden, NoK, Detroit, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/bronze star, Order No. 12.352 "D," 16 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Being exposed to an intense fire of machine guns and artillery he crawled out to one of his wounded men and gave him first-aid. In spite of being severely wounded himself he brought in another wounded man under intense fire to the first-aid station.”; commissioned 2d Lt.

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249.   

*Socha, Rudolph M.

Private, U.S. Army

Battery D, 119TH Field Artillery Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 29 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Rudolph Socha (ASN: 297587), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery D, 119th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Montfaucon, France, 29 September 1918. Having been severely wounded in the knee, Private Socha refused to be evacuated, but immediately returned from the dressing station to his battery position, where he assisted in caring for other wounded men until he was again wounded; inspiring his comrades by his undiminishing courage and cheerfulness in the face of danger.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 11 June 1888 at Talbot, Michigan

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 29 September 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

NoK Mrs. Fred 'Agnes' Haumschild, sister, 425 10th Ave., Milwaukee, WI; he moved to Milwaukee, WI in '05 and worked for International Harvester Co.; he moved back to Detroit, MI (hometown) in '16 and resided at 152 Piquette Ave.; some references list him from Los Angeles, CA, where his brother Max resided; entered service in Sep. '17; trained at Camp Custer, MI and Camp MacArthur, TX; assigned to Btry. D, 119TH FA Regt. when 32D Div. was organized; sailed for France in Feb. '18; not listed in 32D Div. in WW.

Meuse-ArgonneX

250.   

Somes, Russell V.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Russell V. Somes (ASN: 263260), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 31 July 1918. Sergeant Somes advanced in front of his lines on the right of Hill No. 212, under heavy machine-gun fire, and rescued three wounded soldiers. Later he went out into an advanced machine-gun position where three men had already been killed and rescued the only survivor, who had been blinded by shell fire and could not help himself.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: circa 1897 at Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Hometown: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

 

Father Edward Somes, NoK, 906 Young St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI; enlisted in Co. M, 33D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard; promoted to Cpl. ca. Nov. '16 while serving in TX during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. I, 125TH Inf.; married Leone M.; resided at 1713 Root, Flint, MI at 1940 census; member of American Legion; past chief de guerre of 40 and 8 of Mich.

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251.   

Spencer, John Daniel

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company B, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John D. Spencer, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company B, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Fismes, France, 4 August 1918.  While leading his company in the attack against Fismes First Lieutenant Spencer was knocked down and severely wounded by machine-gun fire.  Without regard to his wounds he regained his feet and continued to lead his command until again severely wounded.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: 14 June 1890 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Hometown: Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Death: 14 April 1963 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Oshkosh, Wisconsin

 

Son of Abner A. and Clara C. (Hamer) Spencer; married Rose Beglinger; 19 Baldwin St., Oshkosh, WI; joined WNG; promoted to 1st Lt. on 30 Apr. ‘15; assigned to Co. B, 2D Wis. Inf., Oshkosh, WI; served during Mexican Border Crisis; same position and unit when mobilized again on 15 Jul. ‘17; assigned to Co. B, 127TH Inf., when 32D Div. was organized; sailed for France aboard USS George Washington; severely WIA 4 Aug. ‘18; also earned Croix de Guerre and Purple Heart; attained rank of Capt.

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252.   

St. James, Leonard

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Leonard St. James, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Private St. James repeatedly crossed an open area 500 meters wide under intense machine-gun fire in carrying messages to battalion headquarters. On one of his trips he came upon a wounded soldier, whom he took to the aid station, after administering first aid to him.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: 12 June 1898 at Whittemore, Michigan

Hometown: Bay City, Michigan

Death: 15 February 1980 at age 81

Interred: Esmond Evergreen Cemetery, Hale, Michigan

 

He enlisted 19 Jul. '17, likely Michigan National Guard; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D," 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An admirably courageous soldier. On several occasions he crossed a zone of 500 meters swept by the enemy machine guns in order to carry messages to the battalion post of command. During one of these trips he found a wounded man whom he carried after having given him first-aid.”; discharged 3 Dec. '18; married Laura Patrick; married Sarah Elizabeth; married Anna.

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253.   

Stafford, Thomas J.

Private, U.S. Army

Company L, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Thomas J. Stafford (ASN: 275221), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 1 September 1918. Locating an enemy machine-gun nest, Private Stafford, upon his own initiative, organized a patrol and led it in an attack on the hostile position, thereby facilitating the advance of the company.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: 28 March 1895 at Canada

Hometown: Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Death: 18 June 1962

Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Marinette, Wisconsin

 

He enlisted in Co. L, 2D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Rhinelander, WI, on 15 Apr. '17; assigned to Co. L, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre; married Alice 'Ella'; moved to Marinette or Peshtigo, WI ca. '29; worked at paper mill.

Oise-AisneX

254.   

Stein, Fred C.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company F, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Fred C. Stein (ASN: 262506), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Corporal Stein charged and captured a strong enemy machine-gun neat and immediately turned the gun on the enemy. He was twice wounded while changing the position of the gun, but continued to operate it under heavy shell and machine-gun fire until he received a third wound in the arm, which made it impossible for him to further operate the gun.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 44 (1919)

Born: at Coleman, Michigan

Hometown: Atlanta, Michigan

 

NoK George Stevens, friend, Atlanta, MI (hometown); also earned Italian Croce di Guerra.

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255.   

Steinkraus, Herman William

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 15 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Herman W. Steinkraus, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near the Bois-de-Bantheville, France, 15 October 1918. Continuing in command of his company, after he had been instructed to go to the rear for treatment for an infected leg, Lieutenant Steinkraus skillfully extricated his company with few casualties, when it became suddenly exposed to intense machine-gun fire from both flanks. Reinforcing his command with stragglers he organized a strong right flank guard by utilizing captured German machine-guns and succeeded in maintaining his position.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 11 or 16 December 1890 at Cleveland, Ohio

Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

Death: 10 May 1974 at Westport, Connecticut

Interred: Willowbrook Cemetery, Westport, Connecticut

 

Son of Herman F. and Wilhelmina Steinkraus, father NoK, 4012 Mapledale Ave., Cleveland, OH, parents German immigrants; worked as a lamplighter during his junior and senior years at Lincoln H. S.; graduated magna cum laude from Western Reserve U. in '14; enlisted as a Pvt. (applied for officers' training, rejected as 1st generation American); served with Co. K, 127TH Inf.; also cited for heroism near St. Mihiel; attained rank of Capt.; started at Osborne Manufacturing in '19; married Gladys Caroline Tibbetts 30 Aug. '19, father of 3 (son was captain of U.S. equestrian team at Stockholm Olympics); 1 of 8 decorated veterans to serve as guard of honor for President Roosevelt's 2nd inauguration; general sales manager, vice president and general manager, and finally president, chairman of the board, and CEO of Bridgeport Brass Co., Bridgeport, CT, company earned Army-Navy E w/5 stars during WWII; appointed Col. to Governor Raymond E. Baldwin's staff; advisor to U.S. Conciliation Service; worked with national YMCA and 20 Century Fund; founder of Connecticut Symphony; elected president of Chamber of Commerce of USA; member of American Legion; founder of Bridgeport's Barnum Festival; charter member of NAA Newspaper Carrier Hall of Fame; recognized with Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Citizen Award in Jan. '57; National Commander of Legion of Valor; 33rd Degree Mason; numerous additional accolades, civic endeavors, and business affiliations.

Meuse-ArgonneX

256.   

Stevens, Levi

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Levi Stevens, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Commanding a small detachment, First Lieutenant Stevens charged and captured a strong enemy machine-gun nest, his personal activity and courage aiding greatly in the success of the exploit. Although wounded and under heavy fire, he organized a position from which his detachment could effectively turn the captured gun on the enemy.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)

Born: 15 October 1896 at Trenton, New Jersey (some references state Trenton, Michigan, or somewhere in Kentucky)

Hometown: Alpena, Michigan

Death: 3 August 1976

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Alpena, Michigan

 

Son of Levi, Jr. and Margaret A. Stevens, mother NoK, 433 State St., Alpena, MI; enlisted in Michigan National Guard; 1st Sgt. when unit departed for Camp MacArthur, TX; served with 125TH Inf.; earned battlefield commission; also earned Croix de Guerre; married Edith Ladkau on 21 Dec. '25, father of 10.

Meuse-ArgonneX

257.   

Stevens, Matt Leon

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July - 8 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Matt Stevens (ASN: 263344), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., throughout the advance across the River Ourcq and to Fismes, France, on the south bank of the Vesle River, 31 July to 8 August 1918. Corporal Stevens, then a private was a runner for his company and was engaged day and night in carrying messages throughout machine-gun and artillery fire. He did his work without fear or hesitation, thereby keeping constant liaison with higher authority. During times not so occupied he administered aid to the wounded, crawling to stricken comrades at imminent risk of his own life, through areas swept by machine-gun fire. Through disregard of danger he was the means of saving many wounded men.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 1894 at St. Johns, Michigan

Hometown: St. Johns, Michigan

Death: 1974

Interred: Wacousta Cemetery, Wacousta, Michigan

 

NoK Charlotte Stevens, wife, Wacousta, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 12.373 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “On duty as messenger during the advance between the Ourcq and Fismes, he kept up the transmission of messages night and day, under the fire of machine guns and artillery. His complete indifference to danger and his prompt and intelligent assistance saved many lives.”

Aisne-MarneX

258.   

Strom, Edward Blackburn

Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army

126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 14 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Edward B. Strom, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Cote Dame Marie, west of Romagne, France, 14 October 1918. When the troops on the left of the attacking line were held up by intense enemy machine-gun fire from Cote Dame Marie, Captain Strom volunteered to go forward with a squad of men to clean out the enemy machine-gun nests. With utter disregard for his own personal danger Captain Strom heroically advanced with about six men who were armed with rifles and hand grenades, and succeeded in either killing or capturing about twelve of the enemy and completely silencing the machine guns, which permitted the battalion to continue the advance and resulted in the saving of the lives of many of his comrades.”  The other members of the patrol were Cpl. Albert S. Krzykwa, Cpl. Frank H. Raymond, Pfc. Frederick W. McClemens, Pvt. Charles L. Beck, Pvt. William A. Edsall, Pvt. Thomas D. Karps, Pvt. Albert R. F. Neitzel.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 22 (1929)

Born: 14 January 1887 at Clarion, Michigan

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 28 August 1977 at age 90

Interred: Fairplains Cemetery, Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

He joined Michigan National Guard; 1st Lt. in Co. M, 126TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; transferred to Co. I, 126TH Inf. 19 Jun. '18; promoted Capt. on 29 Jul. '18; assigned Regt. Adjutant on 15 Aug. '18; assumed cmd. of Co. M, 126TH Inf. on 12 Oct. '18, succeeded Capt. Sybrant C. Westra after he was WIA 11 Oct. '18; assumed cmd. of HQ Co., 126TH Inf. on 9 Dec. '18, swapped commands with Capt. Emil B. Gansser; promoted to Maj. 16 Mar. '19; assumed cmd. of 2D Bn., 126TH Inf. on 26 Apr. '19; may have served with post-war Mich. NG; elected to Mich. House of Representatives ca. '20; married Bertha Elliott, father of at least 5; resided at 548 Pleasant St., Grand Rapids, MI at 1940 census; married Oneita L.; son Carl served as Lieut. with 36TH Inf. Div. during WWII, WIA 3 times.

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259.   

*Stuart, Arthur J.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company M, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Arthur J. Stuart (ASN: 363941), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., north of Jaulgonne, near Sergy, France, 31 July 1918. Although exposed to artillery, machine-gun, and rifle fire. Corporal Stuart attempted to carry a wounded man from within 100 feet of the German line. He was killed while crawling toward his own lines with his wounded comrade on his back.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 116 (1918)

Born: at Canada

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 31 July 1918

Interred:

Status: KIA

 

He also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During a combat near Sergy on July 31, 1918, he displayed the greatest heroism and zeal in attempting to bring in a wounded man. Was killed on entering our lines.”

Aisne-MarneX

260.   

Stuckrad, Arthur L.

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 5 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Arthur L. Stuckrad (ASN: 274269), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 5 October 1918. With two other soldiers, Corporal Stuckrad advanced ahead of their company and rushed an enemy machine-gun nest from the flank, capturing fourteen members of the crew and two machine-guns, and thereby enabling the advance to continue. Carrying the captured guns with them to the objective, they later used them successfully in repelling a hostile counterattack.”  One of the other Soldiers was Cpl. Clarence W. Lake.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 1 January 1899 at Charles City, Iowa

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 12 November 1975

 

Son of Frederick H. (A., L.) ‘Fred’ and Sophia (Sophie, Sopha) (Schreiber) Stuckradt, father NoK, 633 Scott St., Milwaukee, WI; also had ties to Knowlton, WI; worked as ticket agent for Milwaukee Road; enlisted in Wisconsin National Guard at Milwaukee, WI on 30 Apr. '17, likely Co. F, 1ST Wis. Inf.; Alsace, Aisne-Marne, Oise-Aisne, Meuse-Argonne, Army of Occupation; discharged at Camp Grant, IL 19 May '19; married Gertrude E., father of at least 2; resided at 4001 W. Willard, Milwaukee, WI at 1940 census; retired 31 Jan. '64 after 44 years of service with Milwaukee Road, last 8 years as station agent in Milwaukee; past president of Wis. Passenger Club.

Meuse-ArgonneX

261.   

Swan, Thomas Edward

Chaplain (Captain), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July - 6 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Chaplain) Thomas E. Swan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., between the Marne and Vesle Rivers, 31 July to 6 August 1918. During the heavy fighting near the Ourcq River Chaplain Swan was in the front lines at all times, under heavy machine-gun and artillery fire throughout the day and night, comforting and aiding the wounded. On one occasion he crossed a field 200 yards wide, under violent shell fire, to minister to two soldiers who had been mortally wounded. In the operations near Mont St. Martin, he continually went back and forth over the crest of a hill during heavy artillery fire to care for the wounded.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 124 (1918)

Born: 4 July 1872 at London, England

Hometown: Saginaw, Michigan

 

Son of Thomas and Ellen (Howard) Swan; graduated St. Stephan's College in '95; General Theological Seminary in '98; married Alberta Gibbons on 12 Apr. '98; F. Missionary, WV '98-'00; Rector Calv. Church, Sandusky, OH '01-'04; Emman. Church, Corry, PA '04-'07; Trinity Church, New Haven, PA '07; Trinity Church, Washington, PA '07-'12; Episcopal Rector, St. Paul's Church at Saginaw, MI '12-'16; resided at 717 N. Hamilton St., Saginaw, MI (hometown); Chaplain of 33D Mich. Inf., Mich. NG, ca. '16; likely served during Mexican Border Crisis; Chaplain of 125TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; WIA, gassed, 3 Aug. '18 near Fismes, he put gas masks on wounded Soldiers before donning his own; received his DSC in London while enroute home; landed at NY on 26 Dec. '18; Chaplain of transport Northern Pacific May-Oct. '19; Rector Trinity Church, South Norwalk, CT ca. '19-'20; resided at 31 Fairfield Ave., South Norwalk, CT; Chaplain of 2D Aircraft Artillery at Fort Totten ca. '21-'24; assigned Chaplain of Governor's Island, New York, NY ca. Jan. '24, he was in charge of plans to erect a Military Chaplains' memorial there.

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262.   

Swift, Harry C.

Private, U.S. Army

Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Harry Swift (ASN: 280257), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company G, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 28 August 1918. Private Swift twice volunteered and carried messages across open fields swept by machine-gun fire after other runners had been killed on similar missions. Returning from his second mission, he saw his company commander fall wounded. Passing through heavy machine-gun fire, he went to his rescue and administered first aid, being himself severely wounded.”  Newspaper accounts describe a slight variation to the story.  Pvt. Swift did find his company commander lying wounded on the battlefield while returning from a mission.  He was severely WIA in neck and shoulder while carrying his commander to safety.  He then went out on another mission and while returning from same he found his Cpl. lying seriously wounded.  While assisting him to safety, Swift was severely WIA in left leg and right arm.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: at Detroit, Michigan or possibly Pennsylvania

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

 

His mother resided on S. Main St., Archibald, PA; also earned Croix de Guerre, received it in France; received his DSC ca. Aug. '19 at Ft. McHenry, MD, where he was being treated for his injuries; on leave visiting his mother at Archibald, PA in Sep. '19.

Oise-AisneX

263.   

Tarzynski, Stanley W. (Tarznyski)

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company K, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August - 1 September 1918

Citation: “Stanley Tarzynski (Army Serial No. 274800) formerly sergeant Company K, 127th Infantry, 32d Division, American Expeditionary Forces. For gallantry in action during the advance on the Sorny road, France, 30 August to 1 September 1918, Sergeant Tarzynski displayed gallant leadership, energy and courage and rendered valuable aid to his company commander. By his fearless exposure to enemy machine gun fire he so encouraged the men that his company made three attempts under heavy shell fire to reach its objective, thereby relieving the units on the right and left of hard pressure and enabling them to advance with less difficulty.”

General Orders:

Born: 10 November 1892

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Death: 27 June 1955

Interred: Arlington Park Cemetery, Greenfield, Wisconsin

 

NoK Mrs. Mary Sicko, Mosinee, WI; enlisted in Co. K, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Milwaukee, WI in Feb. ‘16; was Pfc. in that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. K, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; earned DSC for his actions 30 Aug.-1 Sep. ‘18 on the Sorny road near Juvigny; WIA 1 Sep. ‘18, listed on 4 Nov. ‘18 casualty list; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm; rejoined his unit in Germany with Army of Occupation, received his Croix de Guerre there; served in post-war WNG; assigned to Co. K, 127TH Inf.; commissioned 2d Lt. on 23 Jan. ‘26; transferred to WNG Reserve ca. 25 Jan. ‘27; received an educational bonus; graduated Stout Institute in ‘28; instructor at West Allis Vocational School ca. ‘29; married Eleanor T. in Jun. ‘29; received his DSC 30 Nov. ‘29; member of George Washington Post No. 2 of American Legion at Milwaukee, WI; elected secretary of the Post's “last man's club” when they organized it in '37; also served during WWII, was Capt. and Cdr. of Co. G, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wis. State Guard, at Milwaukee, WI ca. ‘41-‘42.

Oise-AisneX

264.   

*Taylor, Douglas Arthur

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company B, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28 - 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Douglas A. Taylor, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 28 - 30 August 1918.  Second Lieutenant Taylor displayed marked heroism during the attack on Juvigny, and when mortally wounded, refused to be evacuated, but continued to advance and gave orders to continue the attack.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 74 (1919)

Born: 11 May 1893 at Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Hometown: Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Death: 30 August 1918 near Juvigny

Interred: Forest Home Cemetery, Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Status: KIA

 

Son of Arthur and Mary Elnora (Richardson) Taylor, father NoK, 214 Clark St., Rhinelander, WI, father English immigrant; graduated Rhinelander H. S. in ‘10; attended U. of Valparaiso; enlisted in Co. L, 2D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Rhinelander, WI ca. Jun. ‘11; served during Mexican Border Crisis; promoted to Cpl.; promoted to Sgt.; commissioned 2d Lt. in Oct. ‘17; rode to France aboard USS George Washington; fought at Soissons; listed on 4 Oct. ‘18 casualty list; Sgt. Herbert C. Meyer, badly WIA by the same shell, recalled, “My lieutenant, Douglas Taylor, of Rhinelander, came up to me and said, ‘I will be killed today; I can feel that my fighting days are over.’ Then he took a note-book and with a pencil made a few memorandums. It was only a few minutes after this that Lieut. Taylor was hit.”; the order promoting him to 1st Lt. arrived a couple of days after he was killed; a scholarship fund was established in his honor at Northland College at Ashland, WI.

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265.   

*Teichler, John Carl

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company L, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant John Teichler (ASN: 263816), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company L, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Hill 212, near Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Although he was himself severely wounded in the attack on the Bois les Jamblets, Sergeant Teichler attempted to carry in another wounded man, passing through severe machine-gun fire from the front and from the flanks. While doing so he received a second wound, which caused his death.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 132 (1918)

Born: 26 November 1892 at Menominee, Michigan

Hometown: Menominee, Michigan

Death: 31 July 1918

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Menominee, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He enlisted in Co. L, 33D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Menominee, MI ca. '10; re-enlisted 29 Jun. '16; served during Mexican Border Crisis; SN 263816; assigned to Co. L when 125TH Inf. was organized; landed at Brest, France 24 Feb. '18; also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 12.373 "D," 15 Dec. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although severely wounded during a combat near Cierges on July [31], 1918, he displayed extraordinary heroism, abnegation and endurance in attempting to bring a wounded comrade to the rear. Was killed in the accomplishment of this task.”; also bestowed with the green and red ribbon of the French Republic; brother 2d Lt. Alfred L. also served in the Army.

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266.   

Thalke, Max Paul

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Max P. Thalke (ASN: 284575), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 30 August 1918.  Sergeant Thalke displayed unusual courage and gallantry in leading his platoon forward under heavy fire from artillery and machine-guns.  He also gave first aid to the wounded while under fire, and when a retirement was ordered he remained behind to carry back the wounded.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: circa August 1895 at Aurora, Illinois or Wisconsin

Hometown: Menasha, Wisconsin

 

Son of William and Mary (Marie) Thalke, both German immigrants, mother NoK, 469 Manitowoc St., Menasha, WI; also had ties to Milwaukee, WI; member of the 1st Boy Scout troop organized in Menasha in ‘13; enlisted in Co. I, 1ST Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Neenah, WI; brother William served with same unit; both served during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. I, 128TH Inf. (127TH Inf.) when 32D Div. was organized; SN 284575; promoted to Sgt.; also earned Croix de Guerre; WIA, listed on 5 Nov. ‘18 casualty list; received his Croix de Guerre on 30 May ‘19, Decoration Day/Memorial Day, the medal had been sent to Camp Grant, IL, it was then shipped to Menasha on 27 May ‘19, where it was displayed in the window of Tuchscherer’s shoe store leading up to the ceremony; moved to Milwaukee, WI shortly after he was discharged; brother served with 32D Div. during WWI, Pvt. William, WNG, Btry. B, 121ST FA Regt.

Oise-AisneX

267.   

*Thompson, Orrie G.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company C, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Orrie Thompson (ASN: 279707), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., in the woods north of Cierges, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, on 1 August 1918. After his company had entered the woods north of Cierges, Sergeant Thompson and another soldier maneuvered around a machine-gun, which was causing many casualties in the company, and reached a shell hole after crossing an open space that was swept by hostile fire. From here they killed the crew of the machine-gun, captured the gun, and turned it on the enemy.”  The other Soldier was Pvt. Stephen V. Shipman, also Mich. NG, also Co. C.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 15 March 1898 at Bangor, Michigan

Hometown: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Death: 20 October 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: DW

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard at Kalamazoo, MI on 19 Jun. '16; served during Mexican Border Crisis; assigned to Co. C when 126TH Inf. was organized; WIA 18 Oct. '18 at Argonne Forest; DW 20 Oct. '18; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “He displayed great bravery during the attack of a wood near Cierges on August 1, 1918. Aided by one comrade he outflanked the position of a machine-gun nest which was decimating the American line and in spite of a violent fire crossed an open space, reached the objective, killed the gunners and captured the piece.”

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268.   

*Thorne, Charles E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Battery C, 147TH Field Artillery Regiment, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 29 September 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Charles E. Thorne (ASN: 139552), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Battery C, 147th Field Artillery, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Nantillois, France, 29 September 1918. While on duty with his battery as a lineman, Private Thorne saw a soldier fall wounded by shell fragments. Leaving his shelter, Private Thorne went through concentrated shell fire to the assistance of the wounded soldier and in endeavoring to rescue him was himself killed by the explosion of a shell.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 21 (1919)

Born: at Omaha, Nebraska

Hometown: Pierre, South Dakota

Death: 29 September 1918

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Pierre, South Dakota

Status: KIA

 

WIA 5 Sep. '18 near Juvigny; namesake of Charles E. Thorne Post No. 2038 of VFW at Pierre, SD.

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269.   

*Thorsen, Edwin B.

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Machine Gun Company, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 3 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Edwin B. Thorsen, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Ronchères, France, 3 July 1918. Wounded in the abdomen by a machine-gun bullet, Second Lieutenant Thorsen continued to lead his men in the advance for 100 yards, till he fell from loss of blood, dying later from his wound. His example was an inspiration to his men.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 74 (1919)

Born: 27 August 1896 at Ashland, Wisconsin

Hometown: Ashland, Wisconsin

Death: 2 August 1918

Interred: Aisne-Marne American Cemetery

Status: DW

 

He graduated Ashland H. S. in '16; worked for Soo Line (SOO) Railway; before he was old enough to enlist, he went to annual encampments with MG Co., 2D Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Ashland, WI, as mascot; Pfc. with that unit during Mexican Border Crisis; entered First Officers Training Camp at Fort Sheridan, IL, assigned to 4TH Co.; not commissioned because they learned he was too young; returned home and rejoined his old unit; promoted to 2d Lt. in MG Co. on 31 Oct. '17; assigned to MG Co. when 127TH Inf. was organized; sailed for France 16 Feb. '18 aboard USS George Washington; WIA 31 Jul. '18 while leading his platoon at Château-Thierry; DW 2 Aug. at age 21; his brother, 1st Lt. Thorwald Thorsen served with same company and was WIA near Château-Thierry; also memorialized at Mount Hope Cemetery, Ashland, WI.

AlsaceX

270.   

Thrall, Henry G. ‘Harry’

Private, U.S. Army

Company E, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 August 1918 (Some transcripts of his citation state 8 August.  The 4th is likely the correct date, seeing as the 32D Div. was relieved on 7 August.)

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Harry Thrall (ASN: 262324), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company E, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Fismes, France, [4] August 1918. Private Thrall was called upon to carry a message to battalion headquarters. This necessitated his passing through an intense artillery barrage. He was severely wounded in the leg by shrapnel. In spite of his wound he struggled on, refusing first aid until the message was delivered.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 98 (1919)

Born: circa 1889 at Dunningville, Michigan

Hometown: Dunningville, Michigan

 

Son of Joseph and Marry Ann Thrall, mother NoK, Allegan, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 12.373 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “On August 4, 1918, at Fismes although seriously wounded he displayed the greatest bravery and a high sense of duty in refusing first aid and in delivering his message at its destination.”

Aisne-MarneX

271.   

Tindall, Philip

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company G, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 2 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Philip Tindall, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, northwest of Verdun, France, 2 October 1918. First Lieutenant Tindall was severely wounded in the shoulder by a shell fragment at the beginning of the advance on Gesnes, but in spite of his wound he continued to lead his company throughout the advance. He helped to organize the ground against counterattack and remained on duty with his command until the next morning, when he went to the rear only under vigorous protest. Throughout the entire engagement Lieutenant Tindall displayed the utmost coolness and devotion to duty under the heaviest fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 20 August 1878 or 1877 at Washington, D.C.

Hometown: Seattle, Washington

Death: March 1965

 

Father William Tindall, NoK, District Bldg., Washington, D.C.; father served as Pvt. in Co. G, 1ST Del. Inf. during Civil War; graduated George Washington U. Law School in '98; practiced law in Washington, D.C.; moved to Seattle, WA (hometown) ca. '05 and practiced law; resided at 1718 E. Pine St., Seattle, WA; enlisted as Pvt. in Co. L, 2D Wash. Inf., Washington National Guard, at Seattle, WA; served during Mexican Border Crisis; was Sgt. in same unit by the time it mobilized 5 Aug. '17; assigned to 161ST Inf. when 41ST Div. was organized; landed in France Dec. '17; completed Officers' Training School at Gondrecourt and commissioned 2d Lt. ca. Mar. '18; returned to 161ST Inf. to newly arrived Soldiers (41ST Div. was designated a replacement unit); he requested transfer to a combat unit and was assigned to Co. K, 126TH Inf. on 12 Sep. '18; transferred to Co. D, 126TH Inf. on 19 Sep. '18; assigned cdr. of Co. G, 126TH Inf. on 27 Sep. '18; also earned Croix de Guerre; evacuated to hosp.; returned to U.S. in Sep. '18 for continued med. care at Washington, D.C. hosp.; listed as DD on 17 Dec. '18 casualty list; listed as “Wounded Severely, Previously Reported Died of Disease” on 20 Dec. '18 casualty list; temp. assigned to War Dept. Claims Board while continuing med. care in D.C.; discharged ca. Nov. '19; elected to Seattle city council in '20, served until '32.

Meuse-ArgonneX

272.   

Turkopp, Carl F.

Corporal, U.S. Army
308TH Trench Mortar Battery, attached to 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.
Date of Action: 23 October 1918
Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Corporal Carl F. Turkopp (ASN: 1956265), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 308th Trench Mortar Battery, 158th Field Artillery Brigade, 83d Division, A.E.F., near Brabant-sur-Meuse, France, 23 October 1918. During the offensive operations in the Bossois Bois, Corporal Turkopp, although wounded by shell fire and knocked down by concussion, returned to his gun and continued to fire. So great was his exhaustion, that it was necessary for him to be supported while doing his work.”
General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 37 (1919)
Born: Toledo, Ohio
Hometown:
Columbus, Ohio

Meuse-ArgonneX

273.   

*Turley, Clarence Lonnie

Corporal, U.S. Army

Company I, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Clarence L. Turley (ASN: 2258561), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, north of Soissons, France, 30 August 1918. In attack by his company Corporal Turley gave proof of unusual gallantry and courage by fearlessly going out under heavy machine-gun and artillery fire to give aid and carry back the wounded. He was himself seriously wounded while engaged in this work.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 20 (1919)

Born: 13 November 1894 at Marion, or elsewhere in Crittenden County, Kentucky

Hometown: Pasco, Washington

Death: 30 August 1918

Interred: Oise-Aisne American Cemetery, also memorialized at Piney Fork Cemetery, Piney Fork, Kentucky

Status: DW

 

Also earned Silver Star Citation, Purple Heart, and Croix de Guerre.

Oise-AisneX

274.   

*Underwood, David H.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company B, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 6 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class David H. Underwood (ASN: 279050), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company B, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Fismes, France, 6 August 1918. With exceptional courage Private Underwood went out under heavy fire from enemy machine-guns and snipers and rescued a wounded runner who had strayed into the enemy's lines by mistake.” The Soldier that Pfc. Underwood rescued was Pfc. Claude T. Annis, also from Co. B, who DW 8 Aug. ’18.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 11 August 1895 at Ridgeway or Tecumseh, Michigan

Hometown: Tecumseh, Michigan

Death: 31 August 1918 near Juvigny

Interred: Ridgeway Township Cemetery, Ridgeway, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He attended U. of Mich., '12-'14 and '16-'17; worked for Army Y.M.C.A. at Camp MacArthur, TX, when he enlisted in Co. B, 126TH Inf. on 15 Dec. '17; his brother Charles DD, influenza, while member of S.A.T.C. at U. of Mich.

Aisne-MarneX

275.   

*Vibbert, Edward Thomas

Private, U.S. Army

Company M, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private Edward T. Vibbert (ASN: 242283), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Sergy, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918.  When his company was obliged to dig in under heavy fire from all arms within 150 yards of the main German line, he was sent with a message from the company commander to the chief of a front-line platoon.  In endeavoring to accomplish his mission this soldier was mortally wounded.  Lying on the ground he yelled “Message,” attracted the attention of the platoon leader, and with his dying breath delivered the message he bore.”  The officer he delivered the message to was Lt. Robert B. Horine, also from Co. M and the Corunna, MI area.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 23 December 1894 at Brockport, Pennsylvania

Hometown: Corunna, Michigan

Death: 31 July 1918

Interred: Oise-Aisne American Cemetery; also memorialized at Pine Tree Cemetery, Corunna, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

He enlisted in Co. G, 33D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Owosso, MI in Jun. ‘17; SN 242283 or 263983; also awarded Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 “D,” 15 Dec. ‘18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Near Sergy on July 31, 1918, he was mortally wounded while carrying a message to a unit in the front line.”

Aisne-MarneX

276.   

Voliva, James B.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company F, 128TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 7 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant James B. Voliva (ASN: 75091), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 128th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 7 October 1918. One of four survivors of a platoon of 41 who attacked Hill 269, Sergeant Voliva, with the three others continued on their mission and held the hill for some time without hope of reinforcements.”  Sgt. Voliva was a member of a 41-man platoon led by 1st Lt. Edmund P. Arpin that charged up Hill 269 that day.  They suffered heavy casualties along the way and they seized the objective, but only 4 of them made it to the top (1st Lt. Edmund P. Arpin, Sgt. Robert L. Freeman, Cpl. Clare A. McCullough).  The follow-on forces could not be deployed because they were caught in artillery barrage, so the four of them had to give up the hill when the Germans began efforts to take it back.  On the way back down they only found 2 survivors from the 37 Soldiers who fell on the way up (1 of the survivors was Cpl. Regan).

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 47, 1921

Born: 14 January 1896 at Pomona, Washington

Hometown: Pomona, Washington

Death: 18 November 1954

Interred: Pines Cemetery, Spokane, Washington

 

WIA several times on 10 Oct. '18; married Verva Maudell Bernard, father of at least 2 daughters.

Meuse-ArgonneX

277.   

Waite, Howard E.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Sanitary Detachment, 126TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Howard E. Waite (ASN: 180832), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Sanitary Detachment, 126th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 31 August 1918. Facing heavy enemy machine-gun fire, Private First Class Waite volunteered to go out and administer first aid to wounded soldiers lying on an open field, saving the lives of five men and alleviating the suffering of many others. After dark he continued his work until all the wounded had been removed to the rear and their wounds dressed.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 71 (1919)

Born: at Canada

Hometown: Highland Park, Michigan

 

NoK Mrs. Thomas M. Templeton, sister, 292 Tuxedo Ave., Highland Park, MI.

Oise-AisneX

278.   

*Weine, William Fredrich (Frederick)

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company M, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William F. Weine, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near the Cierges River, France, 31 July 1918.  After being seriously wounded in the abdomen, Lieutenant Weine displayed remarkable fortitude in organizing his command for the continuation of the attack before consenting to his removal to the rear.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 2 (1931), Amended by Supplement 1

Born: 1894 at Alpena, Michigan

Hometown: Alpena, Michigan

Death: circa October 1918

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Alpena, Michigan

Status: KIA

 

Son of Paul Adolph and Amelia J. Weine, father NoK (German immigrant), 315 Oldfield St., Alpena, MI; joined 33D Mich. Inf., Mich. NG; commissioned at some point; served during Mexican Border Crisis; 1st Lt. assigned to Co. M, 125TH Inf., when 32D Div. was organized; WIA 31 Jul. (30 Jul.) ‘18; listed as severely WIA on 31 Aug. ‘18 casualty list; also earned Croix de Guerre w/silver star, Order No. 12.373 "D," 15 Dec. ‘18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although severely wounded during the operations to force the passage of the Ourcq on July 30, 1918, he displayed bravery and uncommon spirit in assembling his men to continue the attack before consenting to be evacuated.”; also earned Belgian Chevalier de la Ordre de la Couronne (Order of the Crown) “In recognition of meritorious services rendered the Allied cause.”; KIA (DW) ca. Oct. ‘18 ca. age 24, listed as DW on 21 Nov. ‘18 casualty list; namesake of William F. Weine Post No. 65 of American Legion, Alpena, MI (I can’t believe this officer’s date of death is so difficult to find, I can’t believe that the post named for him has nothing about him on their website, too few posts of veterans’ organizations make the slightest effort to research the accomplishments and sacrifices of their namesakes); not listed in 32D Div. in WW as a casualty or DSC recipient, his Croix de Guerre is listed; brother served during WWI, 2d Lt. Richard H., Co. L, 60TH Inf., 5TH Div., WIA 12 Oct. ‘18.

Aisne-MarneX

279.   

*Wescott, Ira L.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 28-30 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant Ira L. Wescott (ASN: 281389), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Juvigny, France, 28 - 30 August 1918. Sergeant Wescott, as second in command, accompanied a small combat patrol which successfully attacked an enemy trench up by 30 of the enemy, with machine-guns, driving the enemy from the trench and inflicting many casualties. When the patrol leader was severely wounded, Sergeant Wescott took command and immediately reorganized the patrol, holding the captured position despite a severe harassing fire from the enemy, until relief came.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: circa 1896 at Byron Center, Michigan

Hometown: Grandville, Michigan

Death: 9 October 1918

Interred: Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

Status: KIA

 

He enlisted in Co. M or Co. I, 32D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI; also awarded Croix de Guerre w/bronze star, Order No. 14.523 "D," 16 March '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “As a member of a combat patrol he attacked an enemy trench under a violent fire of machine guns. Was severely wounded.”; last name may have been Westcott.

Oise-AisneX

280.   

Wetzel, Henry W.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 - 20 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Henry W. Wetzel (ASN: 274280), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 4 - 20 October 1918. Private Wetzel, a company runner, repeatedly volunteered for missions so hazardous that no others would attempt them. At all hours of the day and night over unknown ground, he carried numerous messages in the face of heavy machine-gun and shell fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 5 December 1894 at Shawano or Belle Plaine, Wisconsin

Hometown: Shawano, Wisconsin

Death: 30 November 1975 at Shawano, Wisconsin

Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Shawano, Wisconsin

 

Son of William August and Amanda (Pintsch) Wetzel, father NoK, Birnamwood, WI; enlisted in Co. F, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Shawano, WI on 19 Apr. '17; assigned to Co. F, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; discharged 18 May '19; married Clara Gross, father of 2; son Harvey H. served in Navy during WWII.

Meuse-ArgonneX

281.   

Wheat, Harry Ray

Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 - 6 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Medical Corps) Harry R. Wheat, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., 1 - 6 August, 1918, from Sergy to Mont St. Martin, France, between the Ourcq and Vesle Rivers. During the attack on 1 August 1918, Captain Wheat went forward with the first wave and established a dressing station in an advanced position to render immediate aid to the wounded. On 5 August at St. Martin, after having been knocked down by the explosion of a shell and while under severe shell and machine-gun fire, he displayed exceptional coolness and devotion to duty in rendering surgical attention to others who had been wounded by the same shell.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 99 (1918)

Born: 16 August 1887 at North Groton, New Hampshire

Hometown: Springfield, Massachusetts

Death: 25 July 1983

Interred: Longmeadow Cemetery, Longmeadow, Massachusetts

 

Son of Sylvester and Mary Louise (Merrill) Wheat, mother NoK, 1911 Massachusetts Ave., North Cambridge, MA; graduated Tufts College Med. School in '13; practiced medicine at 175 State St., Springfield, MA (hometown); joined Med. Reserve Corps in Jul. '17; reported to Army Med. School in Washington, D.C. for initial training; served 6 mos. at Alderhay Hosp., Liverpool, England; served 2 mos. at hosp. at Oxford; then sent to France and assigned to 125TH Inf.; also earned Croix de Guerre; Capt. and Med. Off. in Officers Reserve Corps after the war; married Alice Ormsbee, father of 2; resided at 5 Maden Brock Rd., Longmeadow, Hampden, MA at 1940 census.

Aisne-MarneX

282.   

Whitman, Guy W.

Private First Class, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 4 - 20 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Guy Whitman (ASN: 274283), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 4 - 20 October 1918. During this period, Private Whitman, although many runners had been shot down, repeatedly volunteered and carried messages through heavy enemy barrages, successfully accomplishing his work and thereby saving the lives of many of his comrades.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 87 (1919)

Born: 1898 at Shawano, Wisconsin or Leslie, Michigan

Hometown: Shawano, Wisconsin

Death: 19 September 1935

Interred: Riverside Cemetery, Appleton, Wisconsin

 

Son of Norman Christopher ‘Christian’ ‘Christ’ and Maude Amelia (Arman) Whitman, mother NoK, 531 Outagamie St., Appleton, WI; enlisted in Co. F, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Shawano, WI on 10 Apr. '17; assigned to Co. F, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; also earned Croix de Guerre; received his Croix de Guerre on 16 Mar. '19; received his DSC ca. 13 Apr. '19; discharged 18 May '19; married Ida Adams at Appleton, WI on 25 Jun. '25; resided at 920 W. Lawrence St., Appleton, WI.

Meuse-ArgonneX

283.   

Williams, Clarence M.

Captain (Medical Corps), U.S. Army

125TH Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July & 1, 2, & 3 - 7 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Medical Corps) Clarence M. Williams, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment (Attached), 32d Division, A.E.F., on the Ourcq River 31 July and 1 August 1918; northwest of Coulonges, France, 2 August 1918; and on the heights overlooking the Vesle River, 3 - 7 August 1918. During these three periods of severe fighting Captain William maintained a dressing station close to the advanced lines and worked continuously night and day under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 99 (1918)

Born: 25 December 1874 at Mumby, Michigan

Hometown: Alpena, Michigan

Death: 11 December 1928

Interred: Evergreen Cemetery, Alpena, Michigan

 

Married Clara Hoey; graduated U. of Mich., med., in '01; completed several courses at Johns Hopkins U. ca. '15-'16; joined Med. Reserve Corps; stationed at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, IN ca. '17; transferred to Camp MacArthur, TX ca. Nov. '17; served with 125TH Inf.; also earned Croix de Guerre w/palm, Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, "During the operations between the Ourcq and the Vesle, from July 31 to August 7, 1918, he commanded the first-aid station close to the front line. His devotion to the wounded, his heroic self-sacrifice and his untiring activity saved a great number of lives."; elected vice-president of Mich. State Med. Society 27 May '20.

Aisne-MarneX

284.   

Williams, Pontiac J., Jr.

Private, U.S. Army

Company K, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Pontiac J. Williams, Jr. (ASN: 263592), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company K, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., at Hill No. 212, near Sergy, northeast of Chateau-Thierry, France, 31 July 1918. Private Williams volunteered to go out in front of our lines and bring in a wounded runner. Although he was shot in the face before he reached the runner, he accomplished his mission.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: ca 1896 or 1899 at Hart, Michigan

Hometown: Bay Shore, Michigan

 

Native American, Ottawa, great-grandson of Chief Pontiac; son of John and Nancy (Pontiac) Williams, many references list him as Jr. for some reason; NoK Mrs. Mary Chingman, aunt, R. F. D. 1, Bay Shore, MI; enlisted at Detroit, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “On July 31, 1918, near Cierges he volunteered to go out in front of our lines to bring in a wounded soldier. Wounded in the face, he displayed much courage and endurance in persisting in the execution of his mission and in bringing his man through a violent artillery fire.”; some references imply he earned more than 1 wound chevron; listed on 16 Oct. '18 casualty list; married Rosemary; resided at Cold Springs Township, Kalkaska Co., MI at 1940 census.

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285.   

Wilson, Guy M.

Major (Infantry), U.S. Army

2D Battalion, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July - 5 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Infantry) Guy M. Wilson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., while commanding the leading battalion in the successful advance from Courmont to Mont St. Martin, France, from 31 July to 5 August 1918, including the forced crossing of the Ourcq River and several engagements, and especially at Les Jamblet, where he personally led the successful charge of his battalion.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 29 November 1875 or 1876 at Forest Beach in Emmett County or Thetford or Forest Township in Genesee County, Michigan

Hometown: Flint, Michigan

Death: 16 August 1936 at his home in Flint, Michigan

Interred: Glenwood Cemetery, Flint, Michigan

 

He graduated Flint H. S. in '93; graduated U. of Mich. with law deg. in '96; returned to Flint to practice law; served as police commissioner and secretary of School Board; enlisted in Co. A, 3D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, on 24 Jul. '99 and mobilized with them at Orchard Lake; Cpl. on 20 Nov. '99; Sgt. on 3 Jul. '00, 1st Sgt. later that year; 1st Lt. on 17 Jul. '02; Capt. on 24 or 26 Jul. '04; Maj. on 28 Aug. '11; mobilized for Mexican Border Crisis in cmd. of a bn. on 19 Jun. '16, served at Camp Cotton near El Paso, TX; after returning from TX, he and his bn. were sent to Fort Brady to guard the locks at Sault Ste. Marie; to Camp MacArthur, near Waco, TX with his bn. in Oct. '17; his unit became 2D Bn., 125TH Inf. when the 32D Div. was organized; sailed for France 10 Feb. '18; also earned Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur (French Legion of Honor), by Presidential Decree of 5 May '19; also earned Croix de Guerre w/2 palms, Order No. 16.047 "D," 13 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An officer of admirable courage and devotion who, for five days, victoriously led his battalion to the attack on very strongly defended enemy positions between the Marne and Vesle.” and Order No. 12.335 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “During the advance from Courmont to Mont-St.-Martin from July 31 to August 4, 1918, he inspired all his men with confidence by the sound judgment he displayed during the attack.”; seriously WIA on 29 Aug. '18 near Juvigny, shrapnel wound to the head; returned to duty on 1 Nov. '18; assumed temp. cmd. of 126TH Inf. on 19 Nov. 19 and led it on march to the Rhine; returned to 125TH Inf. on 5 Dec. ‘18; Lt. Col. on 16 Mar. '19 and assigned as Div. Inspector; landed at NY with his old unit, 2D Bn., 125TH Inf. on 18 May ‘19; discharged 8 Jul. '19 (he had been on active duty since 19 Jun. '16); wife was Red Cross worker in Flint during the war; Lt. Col. on 23 Apr. '21; Col. on 26 Jan. '22; Brig. Gen. on 2 May '23; Maj. Gen. on 21 Jun. '26, cdr. of 32D Div. about that time.

Aisne-MarneX

286.   

Wilson, Hazen P.

Private, U.S. Army

Company C, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Hazen Wilson (ASN: 261723), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company C, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Gesnes, France, 9 October 1918. Private Wilson displayed exceptional courage and bravery while carrying messages from his company in the line to his regimental post of command. While carrying messages he passed through areas swept by a terrific enemy fire. He was repeatedly knocked down by the shell explosions, and had his rifle broken and his pack torn from his back by the force of the exploding shells, but successfully completed his mission, delivering messages which were of great value in the success of the operation.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: circa 1897 or 1898 at Monroe County, Michigan

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan

Death: 1981

 

Son of John S. and Mathilda Wilson, mother NoK, 1776 Scotten Ave., Detroit, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D," 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “He displayed exceptional bravery in carrying messages from his company in line to the regimental post of command through a terrible enemy fire. Knocked down on several occasions by bursting shells, he continued to carry out his mission.”; married, father of at least 2; resided at 14650 Forrer, Detroit, MI at 1940 census.

Meuse-ArgonneX

287.   

Wilson, James McMeekan

Second Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Headquarters, 1ST Battalion, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 8 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James M. Wilson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Ammertzwiller (Ammertzviller), Alsace, the night of 8 July 1918. Second Lieutenant Wilson returned under fire into enemy barbed-wire to recover two of his patrol who were missing after a raid, and, although painfully wounded himself, brought them safely to the American trenches, concealing the fact of his injury until he had succeeded in his undertaking and fainted from exhaustion.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 101 (1918)

Born: 17 June 1893 at Bloomingdale, Michigan

Hometown: Kalamazoo, Michigan

Death: 1967

Interred: Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park South, Kalamazoo, Michigan

 

Son of Charles S. and Mary A. 'Matie' (McMeekan) Wilson; grandfather George S. Wilson served during Civil War; resided at 1120 S. West St., Kalamazoo, MI; attended Bloomingdale H. S., Kalamazoo H. S., and Parsons Business College; enlisted in Co. M, 2D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, on 1 Apr. '12; served with Co. D, 32D Mich. Inf., during Mexican Border Crisis; was Sgt. in Co. C, 126TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; commissioned 2d Lt. on 4 Dec. (31 Oct.) '17 and assigned Adjutant, 1ST Bn., 126TH Inf.; sailed for France 1 Feb. '18; assigned Scout Off., 1ST Bn., 126TH Inf. on 20 Jun. '18; earned DSC for his actions 8 Jul. '18 as 2d Lt. at Ammertzwiller (Ammertzviller), near Hecken, Alsace, after returning from a raid, he went back out (with 2 of his Soldiers) and recovered 2 of his Soldiers who were MIA, seriously WIA during the event (2 bullet wounds, another bullet hit his canteen cover, where he kept grenades, none exploded), he refused treatment until he collapsed; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D," 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “After the execution of a raid he returned under the fire into the enemy lines to search the barbed wire entanglement for two members of his patrol who were missing. Although wounded he surmounted his sufferings which he endeavored to conceal and brought his two men back into our lines, where he lost consciousness.” (also earned 2 palms, 1 on 11 Nov. '18, the other palm likely the 1 the Regt. earned, 1 reference states he also received bronze star on 11 Nov., either they confused bronze star for gilt star or he earned 4 Croix de Guerre, I think it is the former); also earned Silver Star Citation for his actions 8 Jul. '18; received is DSC 14 Aug. '18; returned to duty 19 Aug. '18; promoted 1st Lt. on 5 Sep. '18; WIA, gassed, 8 Sep. '18 at Juvigny; severely WIA 5 Oct. (15 Oct.) '18 near Romagne; returned to duty 17 Jan. '19 and transferred to Co. C, 126TH Inf.; promoted Capt. 18 Mar. '19 transferred to F. & S., HQ, 126TH Inf. on 11 Apr. '19; earned Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur (French Legion of Honor), by Presidential Decree of 11 Nov. '18; earned Belgian Chevalier de la Ordre de la Couronne (Order of the Crown) (32D Div. in WW listed “Decoration of Chevalier of the National Order,” not sure if they meant the Order of the Crown or the Order of Leopold II, both are national orders and both have degree of chevalier, I think it is the former); earned Meritorious Service Citation (likely the basis of Silver Star Citation); earned Purple Heart w/3 OLCs (received 11 Nov. '32); discharged at Camp Custer, MI 10 Jun. '19; started insurance agency in '19 (later evolved into James M. Wilson Agency, Inc. and J. M. Wilson Corp.); married Margaret I. Hoag on 17 Apr. '20, father of 3; son James M., Jr. served during WWII; 1st cdr., and likely founding member, of Joseph B. Westnedge Post No. 36 of American Legion at Kalamazoo, MI; elected to Mich. House of Representatives in '28, re-elected in '30, '32, '34.

AlsaceX

288.   

Wilson, Merritt B. ‘Tug’

First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army

Company F, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 2 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Merritt B. Wilson, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Reddy Farm, France, 2 August 1918. With a party of 30 men, Lieutenant Wilson led the advance on the Bois Chenet, where a full company of Germans, supported by machine-guns, were encountered. Due to his splendid leadership and example, this resistance was overcome and the woods were taken. Although suffering great pain from a broken ear drum, caused by the explosion of a shell, Lieutenant Wilson immediately led his party to the flank of the battalion, where numerous attempts of the enemy to retake the woods were repulsed. He refused to leave his company for first aid until darkness had brought an end to the advance.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 64 (1919)

Born: 11 March 1885 at Menominee, Michigan

Hometown: Menominee, Michigan

Death: 9 June 1959

Interred: Park Cemetery, Marquette, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Co. L, 33D Mich. Inf., Mich. NG, at Menominee, MI in '12; served during Mexican Border Crisis; 2LT in '17; assigned to Co. F when 125TH Inf. was organized; landed at Brest, France 24 Feb. '18; Alsace sector, Oise-Aisne, Fismes, Aisne-Marne, Château-Thierry, where he was WIA 5 Aug. '18; awarded Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 16.103 "D," 16 Apr. '19, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “An admirably courageous officer who at the head of 30 men penetrated the Chenet Wood where he encountered a German company supported by machine guns. Thanks to his splendid qualities as a leader, he broke up this resistance and captured the Wood. His ear-drum having been broken by the explosion of a shell he disregarded his sufferings and led his men to reinforce the left wing of the battalion, breaking the enemy attacks until nightfall.”; cdr. of Co. H, 125TH at Meuse-Argonne, where he was WIA 9 Oct. '18; evacuated to Vitale Hosp.; returned to duty 11 Nov. '18 as cdr. of Co. F, 125TH Inf.; served with Army of Occupation at Harschbach, Germany; returned to U.S. 1 May '19; discharged 26 May '19 at Camp Custer; also earned Purple Heart w/OLC.

Aisne-MarneX

289.   

Witte, Louis August

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company F, 127TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 30 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant [then Private] Louis Witte (ASN: 274172), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company F, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Ronchères, France, 30 July 1918. When all the other members of his automatic rifle squad had been killed or wounded Sergeant Witte took the dead gunner's automatic rifle and kept it in action against the enemy. Considerable enemy machine-gun fire was thereby drawn upon his and he was wounded, but he nevertheless continued to maintain an effective fire while the remainder of his company was withdrawing. He remained at his post firing until the entire company had withdrawn.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 66 (May 21, 1919)

Born: 22 June 1895 or 1894 at Wittenberg or elsewhere in Shawano County, Wisconsin

Hometown: Shepley or Wittenberg, Wisconsin

Death: 8 February 1976 at Sheboygan County, Wisconsin

Interred: Woodlawn Cemetery, Plymouth, Wisconsin

 

Son of Herman J. F. and Amelia Witte, mother NoK, R. F. D. 2, Box 100, Wittenberg, WI; enlisted in Co. F, 4TH Wis. Inf., Wisconsin National Guard, at Shawano, WI on 20 Apr. '17; assigned to Co. F, 127TH Inf. when 32D Div. was organized; promoted Cpl. on 25 Oct. '18; promoted Sgt. on 4 Dec. '18; returned home 19 May '19; brother Emil B. also served; newspaper photograph depicts him in his WWI uniform during Veterans Day observance on 21 Oct. '73 in Milwaukee, WI, he was honored at a dinner hosted by Milwaukee Metropolitan NCO Council.

Aisne-MarneX

290.   

Young, Guy L.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 125TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 31 July 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Guy L. Young (ASN: 263186), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 125th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Cierges, France, 31 July 1918. Under heavy machine-gun fire, Sergeant Young went out in front of our lines and carried to shelter two wounded men.”

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 126 (1919)

Born: at Dafter, Michigan

Hometown: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

 

Father Daniel Young, NoK, 706 Esterday Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, MI; also earned Div. Citation.

Aisne-MarneX

291.   

Zavitz, Archie M.

Sergeant, U.S. Army

Company I, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 9 October 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Sergeant Archie M. Zavitz (ASN: 280675), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., near Romagne, France, 9 October 1918. Facing heavy fire, Sergeant Zavitz crawled 75 yards in advance of the platoon he commanded and reduced a machine-gun nest with rifle grenades.” Sgt. Zavitz worked in concert with 1st Sgt. William F. Sack, the company commander, to attack the machinegun nests.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders 81 (1919)

Born: 1896 at Rothbury, Michigan

Hometown: Fruitport, Michigan

Death: November 1945 (1946)

Interred: Mona View Cemetery, Muskegon Heights, Michigan

 

He enlisted in Michigan National Guard.

Meuse-ArgonneX

292.   

Zeldam, John J.

Private, U.S. Army

Company M, 126TH Infantry Regiment, 32D ‘Red Arrow’ Division, A.E.F.

Date of Action: 1 August 1918

Citation: “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private John J. Zeldam (ASN: 281431), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Company M, 126th Infantry Regiment, 32d Division, A.E.F., north of Cierges, France, 1 August 1918. Following an assault, in which he was wounded in the leg by a machine-gun bullet, and when further advance was impossible because of a barrage, Private Zeldam took refuge in a shell hole. From this shelter he observed a comrade who was seriously wounded and needed assistance. Despite heavy artillery and machine-gun fire, he crawled 20 yards through the open, reached the helpless man, and took him back to the shell hole. After the two had lain in the shell hole nearly the entire day, Private Zeldam, leaving his canteen with his companion, crawled across the danger zone and obtained assistance to carry the other wounded man to a dressing station.” The wounded Soldier he attempted to rescue was Pfc. William E. Welmerink, also from Co. M and Grand Rapids, MI, his boyhood friend and schoolmate. There is some discrepancy regarding the date of action. Most references state that Pvt. Zeldam was WIA and earned his DSC on 1 Aug. ’18, but most references state that Pfc. Welmerink was KIA on 2 Aug. ’18.

General Orders: War Department, General Orders No. 117 (1918)

Born: 22 January 1896 at Grand Rapids, Michigan

Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan

Death: 9 October 1979

Interred: Mansion Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Ellenton, Florida

 

He enlisted in Co. M or Co. I, 32D Mich. Inf., Michigan National Guard, at Grand Rapids, MI; also earned Croix de Guerre w/gilt star, Order No. 12.334 "D," 15 Dec. '18, GHQ, French Armies of the East, “Although wounded he left his shelter to go to the assistance of a disabled man whom he succeeded in bringing into the lines.”

Aisne-MarneX

 

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